If this is true (can't log in myself right now to confirm or not,) that is absolutely outrageous. This is the kind of d*ck behavior that makes the entire housing mess so much worse. But while you (the OP) are very understandably upset, limiting plots to FCs only would not solve this issue, only increase the number of one-member shell FCs who buy plots for individual players. SE must revamp or expand the housing system if there is going to be any end to the shortages or the horrible behavior that stems from it.

I had hoped that apartments would be the precursor to actual, viable instanced housing, but the more time that passes with SE not building upon that foundation, the dimmer that possibility seems.