NEW YORK AFFORDABLE RENTALS
PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU CONTACT US:
DISCLAIMER
Homeless To Independence Inc. is a 501©3 non-profit organization. We are self supporting and we do NOT receive any government grant funding what-so-ever to pay bills for anyone in any situation. We do not give away money. We do not give out loans against any money.
This ministry is supported with generous financial donations that are used to help keep us functioning. Our purpose is to help supply individuals and families with personal needs such as food, toiletries, clothing, household items, furniture and baby/adult diapers/wipes both locally and to areas effected by disasters . At this time, we do not offer any shelter or transitional housing services. Again, we DO NOT pay any bills. We DO NOT pay any rents or mortgages.
If you are actually homeless, or about to be homeless or need emergency assistance of any kind, DIAL “211” from a land-line telephone. This will not work from a cell telephone. Tell the receiver your situation and what you need. They will give you information specific for the location you are currently in plus any referrals you may need. They have the most up to the minute information for your specific area. Dialing “211” will get you help and much more info than this office can provide. Homeless to Independence wants you to have all the information you need to get through the situation you are in.
Don’t have a land-line telephone??? Go to your local police department, library, or house of worship and ask to use their land-line telephone. They may even make the call on your behalf.
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For those of you looking for employment through-out the United States, District of Columbia or Puerto Rico, simply;
2. CHOOSE YOUR STATE/COMMONWEALTH/TERRITORY;
3. CHOOSE THAT STATE/COMMONWEALTH/TERRITORY’S EMPLOYMENT PAGE.
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Homeless To Independence Inc. is not responsible for misprints or cancellations of events by the event holders, landlord and/or their agent, or ourselves. Homeless to Independence Inc. also reserves the right to “NOT” offer services to people and/or persons that are rude, unpleasant, and untruthful in any way shape or form, belligerent and the like.
OCCASIONALLY, THERE WILL BE ARTICLES BY OTHER WRITERS. HOMELESS TO INDEPENDENCE MAY NOT NECESSARILY AGREE WITH THEIR VIEWPOINTS, BUT WE DO RESPECT THEM. THANK YOU FOR YOUR COOPERATION!
OFFICE CONTACT INFO:
HOMELESS TO INDEPENDENCE INC., 201 STATION ROAD #258, QUAKERTOWN, PA 18951
THE VERY BEST WAY TO CONTACT ME IS TO SEND ME AN EMAIL: ANN@HOMELESSTOINDEPENDENCE.ORG
OFFICE NUMBER IS: 1-908-454-1500 LISTEN TO THE RECORDING
Please note that our office does have very limited volunteer staff and if we are one telephone line we cannot answer the other line. There is simply not enough time in the day to answer and/or return each and every telephone call.
THANK YOU!!!
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HUD EXCHANGE – HOMELESSNESS ASSISTANCE
https://www.hudexchange.info/homelessness-assistance/
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03-25-24 NEW YORK HOUSING LIST OPENING SOON
The City of New Rochelle PHA
Open Soon: City of New Rochelle PHA Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Waiting List
The City of New Rochelle PHA (CNRPHA) will accept Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher waiting list applications from June 10, 2024, until June 17, 2024.
Please note: New Rochelle, NY is also covered by the New Rochelle Municipal Housing Authority (NRMHA). Despite their similar names, they are different housing authorities with different waiting lists. Click the prior link for more information on the NRMHA.
To apply while the waitlist is open, complete the online application that will be available on the CNRPHA website.
Income limits can be found here.
This waiting list has the following preferences:
- New Rochelle resident
- Elderly Family (age 62+)
- Disabled household
- Veterans
- Family with minor children
- Households that do not receive a federal housing subsidy such as Section 8 or public housing.
- Current participants in the City of New Rochelle’s TBRA Program (non-CARES Act)
It is not known how applicants will be placed on the waiting list, by order of preferences.
For more information, visit the CNRPHA website.
Sources: This information was verified by the CNRPHA Section 8 page on March 22, 2024.
LINK: https://affordablehousingonline.com/housing-authority/New-York/The-City-of-New-Rochelle-PHA/NY113
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HRH
HIGHLIGHTS
FEBRUARY 2024 |
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Developments
Updates from around HRH and our programs
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Climate Friendly Home Fund
The Climate Friendly Homes Fund (CFHF), administered by The Community Preservation Corporation, provides financing for existing, 5-50-unit buildings in New York State with a focus on replacing older and less energy-efficient systems with all-electric, high-performance heating, cooling, and hot water heating systems.
These funds will empower small building owners to identify and execute a scope of work to improve the energy efficiency of their buildings and decrease their greenhouse gas emissions.
For more information, contact Tina Calcutti (tcalcutti@hudsonriverhousing.org) or visit the website linked below |
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FOR SALE – 57 Thompson Street
Hudson River Housing currently listing a property for sale at 57 Thompson Street. This lot is Board of Health-approved, includes municipal water/sewer hook-up, and is ready for development. The property is .16 acres (35′ x 200′) and is zoned R-4 Residential, Medium Density. The property is listed for $55,000.
For more information, please contact Mary Linge, VP of Real Estate Development & Housing Counseling at mlinge@hudsonriverhousing.org or 845-454-5176, ext. 114 |
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Roderick J MacLeod Legacy Fund
It is with a very heavy heart that we share the news of Roderick J. MacLeod’s passing. Rod graciously and compassionately offered 19 years of service to Hudson River Housing and so many other community and service groups for many years. His dedication to our organization, and to serving and improving the lives of members of our community is unparalleled. At the request of the MacLeod Family, Hudson River Housing has established this Legacy Fund in honor of Roderick MacLeod.
We extend our deepest condolences to Rod’s many friends, his wife Karen and his entire family. It was a great privilege to have considered him a cherished friend and mentor within our organization. We are grateful to have worked with such an extraordinary individual. He will be greatly missed. |
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2024 Annual Sponsorships – Support Hudson River Housing and everything we do!
2024 Annual Sponsorships are now available!
We invite you to become a part of the difference Hudson River Housing is making in our community each day by becoming an Annual Sponsor. Annual Sponsorships offer prominent, year-long recognition and benefits. Becoming an Annual Sponsor will place you at the forefront of Hudson River Housing’s community of supporters. |
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Program Updates and Upcoming Classes from our Homeownership Center
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NeighborWorks Homeownership Center of Dutchess County announces the next round of The Debt Reducers Club
NeighborWorks Homeownership Center of Dutchess County announces the next round of The Debt Reducers Club. Along with Heritage Financial Credit Union’s Financial Development Center, The Debt Reducers club is aimed at assisting participants in enhancing their financial well-being by providing information to make informed financial decisions to increase savings capacity, reduce debt and increase credit scores. The program will provide a 2:1 savings match to reduce harmful debt to participants who successfully complete the program.
The program requires participants to save $25 per month for ten months in a designated savings account with Heritage Financial Credit Union. At the end of the ten months the program will provide a $500 match. The total, $750 will be used toward paying down harmful debt.
To qualify for the program participants must:
- Be a current Dutchess County resident
- Meet income eligibility guidelines. Household income cannot exceed 80% of Dutchess County’s Area Median Income.
- Have at least $500 in harmful debt.
- Complete NHC-DC’s Financial Capability program which consists of Financial Fitness Group education and one-on-one financial fitness counseling.
- Open a designated savings account for DRC at Heritage Financial Credit Union.
- Have an initial counseling session with HFCU’s Financial Development Center staff upon opening Debt Reducers Club savings account.
- Participants will have a final counseling session with HFCU’s Financial Development Center staff upon completion of the program.
Enrollment for this program begins on March 1, 2024. |
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Applications open for AHC Flood Relief Program, Program expanded to cover more recent storms
Were you affected by flooding during July 2023’s historic storms or the more recent flooding in October 2023? Applications are open for the AHC Flood Assistance Program. Funds are available for homeowners who meet certain income requirements and are not eligible for other flood relief funds. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all funds are exhausted.
Homeowners in the affected regions can apply to receive funding to cover the cost of urgent repairs necessary to bring their home into a safe and habitable condition. Eligible work may include repair of electrical and plumbing systems, heating systems and appliances. Flooring, insulation, windows, doors, siding, and roofing. A full list of qualified repairs and eligibility criteria are available on the HCR flood program website.
Contact Lashonda Denson (ldenson@hudsonriverhousing.org) to apply and for more information about the program and eligibility. |
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Keys to HomeownershipMarch 1st, April 19th, May 3rdThe Neighborworks Homeownership Center of Dutchess County will be offering our next Keys to Homeownership session on March 1st. These are financial health classes geared towards first time home buyers. These classes are offered once a month and will help you set goals, and identify barriers to purchasing homes.Please register ahead of time, we cannot accept walk-ins for this program.Contact Lashonda Denson (ldenson@hudsonriverhousing.org) for more information or to enroll for the class. |
Financial FitnessSession 1 – March 20thSession 2 – April 17thThe Neighborworks Homeownership Center of Dutchess County offers a FREE Financial Fitness class for all Dutchess County residents. Session 1 focuses on savings and budgeting, and session 2 focuses on the understanding credit. The goal is to help individuals and families learn how to increase savings, decrease debt, improve credit scores, and correct credit deficiency.Contact Nancy Beras (nberas@hudsonriverhousing.org) for more information or to enroll for the class. |
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News and Upcoming Events from PUF
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Open Kitchen Member Happenings
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Poughkeepsie
Poughkeepsie Underwear Factory
8 N Cherry Street, Poughkeepsie, NY
Little Loaf Bakeshop
Thursday – Saturday
9am – 1pm
Little Loaf Bakeshop offers vegan pastry magic every week Thursday – Saturday at the Poughkeepsie Underwear Factory location.
Sunday Pop-ups – Sugar Pixie and Powerful Juices & Smoothies
Sundays, 9am – 4pm
Double the fun on Sundays at the Poughkeepsie Underwear Factory! Sugar Pixie brings you confections and lunch from 11am – 4pm. Powerful Juices & Smoothies offers up fresh made-to-order juices and vegan Caribbean cuisine. |
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Wappingers Falls
River Valley Arts Center
9 S Mesier Ave, Wappingers Falls
Cooking Classes with Chef Gina & Personal Plates LLC
Chef Gina & Personal Plates LLC offers a rotating selection of cooking classes for kids, adults, date nights, and more at the River Valley Arts Center.
Class dates and registration can be found on their Instagram (@chef_gini, @goodthymes_cookingclass) |
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Successes
Positive updates from our clients, staff, volunteers, and community partners
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A testimony from one of our residents
T is a young woman who has faced more challenges in her 22 years than most people do in a lifetime. Just two years ago, she found herself without a place to call home, cast out by a family member and left to navigate the streets alone.
Then, in 2023, T’s life took a turn when she met Robin Seale, the senior care manager of our TLC independent living program. Robin listened to T’s story with compassion and understanding, and without hesitation, offered her a lifeline through our TLC program, a supportive, young adult transitional housing program.
During her time in TLC, T showed a remarkable determination to turn her life around. Despite the obstacles she faced, she worked tirelessly to create a better future for herself. And when the opportunity for permanent housing arose in Robin’s program, Robin knew immediately that T was the perfect candidate.
In her interview for the apartment, T spoke candidly about her past struggles and the hardships she had endured. When she was told that she had been chosen for the apartment, T was overcome with emotion. For the first time in years, she had a place to call home.
T’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the impact of a caring support system. Despite the odds stacked against her, she never lost hope. Now, in her new apartment, T is taking the first steps towards a brighter future, one filled with promise and possibility. T persevered through challenges without the comfort of family support. However, in Robin Seale, she found not just a mentor, but a source of unwavering encouragement and belief in her potential. |
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River Haven staff excited to receive new uniform shirts
This past month, River Haven got their own shirts with a new River Haven logo. A special thank you to HRH Made for making these shirts possible. |
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Dinner with the Police
Officer Greg and Officer Chris from the Poughkeepsie Police Department came by River Haven to resume our monthly dinners with our residents. A huge thanks to Gino’s Pizza on Main Street for donating all the food. |
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HRH in the NewsHRH in the news and other headlines about housing |
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Hudson River Housing signs letter urging Governor to increase funding for supportive housing
We joined Supportive Housing Network of New York & ~100 organizations in urging Governor Kathy Hochul to save supportive housing statewide by increasing the drastically, chronically underfunded NYS Supportive Housing Program (NYSSHP) in this year’s State budget.
Read the letter here |
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Now Hiring!
We are seeking qualified candidates to join our team
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Tutoring Program – Hudson River Lodge & River Haven (paid and volunteer spots available)Seeking Tutors! Make a difference in the lives of youth staying at Hudson River Lodge and River Haven. We are looking for tutors and volunteer assistants for our after school tutoring program at our youth and family housing. Our tutoring program runs Monday to Thursday, 3pm to 5pm, with additional opportunities available by appointment.Tutors must have a NYS Teacher Certification in any subject. As a tutor, you will work closely with our residents to provide academic support and guidance, including assisting with comprehension of subjects, homework, and test preparation. Tutors will be paid $35/hour.Volunteer assistants are also welcome. Volunteers will work under our tutors, and provide assistance where needed. Individuals pursuing a degree in an education field are highly encouraged to volunteer. Volunteers must be 18 or older.Those interested should contact Anita Kiewra. Call 845-762-8668 or email akiewra@hudsonriverhousing.org |
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Why work for Hudson River Housing?We are a dedicated group of people from all backgrounds who care deeply about our community and want to make it a better place. Our employees all remain committed to working towards ending homelessness and addressing barriers to housing insecurity. Every job here works towards that goal.All full-time employees enjoy generous paid time-off, a quality insurance plan (health, dental, and vision), 401k retirement plan with matching contributions, and competitive pay and raises. Part time employees receive a competitive wage, and a fair, regular schedule with time off. |
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Support our work!
For over 40 years, Hudson River Housing has worked to address homelessness and housing insecurity in Dutchess County and the Hudson Valley. This is not possible without the support of people like you! Consider making a donation to Hudson River Housing today! |
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03-15-24
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Learn how to rent a single-family home with a Section 8 voucher in our updated guide written by housing experts:
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https://affordablehousingonline.com/rent-section-8-houses
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03-14-24
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In addition to making your rent affordable, one of the main benefits of having a Section 8 voucher is the ability to transfer it to a new area. Our new step-by-step takes you through every part of the porting process:
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https://affordablehousingonline.com/what-is-section-8/port-voucher
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03-08-24 –
How to Become a Section 8 Landlord
There are many benefits for landlords who rent to Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher tenants. If you are a landlord interested in leasing to tenants with rental assistance, this guide will help you navigate the process step-by-step.
Before diving into everything, if you want to know more about how the Section 8 HCV program works, we recommend starting with our What is the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program? Guide.
While this program is aimed to help renters, it was also designed to benefit landlords as well. Most importantly for landlords, rent payments are split between tenants and the housing agency that manages the voucher. So, you can expect to receive timely payments from the local housing department every month for their share of rent.
Other key benefits include:
• The ability to request reasonable annual rent increases from the local housing agency.
• Free inspections that can identify maintenance needs before they become too severe.
• Gratification from providing affordable housing to renters with low incomes, who are in great need of this assistance.
Many landlords are aware of these benefits, but are still hesitant to rent to Section 8 tenants because of widespread myths about the program. Let’s spend some time addressing the facts:
• Section 8 tenants are no more likely to damage units or fail to pay rent than tenants without rental assistance. In fact, Section 8 tenants are typically steady, long-term residents who often live in their unit for several years.
• Your Section 8 tenants can be evicted for lease violations just the same as tenants without vouchers. Section 8 tenants are bound by the terms of their lease, just like any other tenant.
• Landlords are not required to rent to someone just because they have a Section 8 voucher. You may screen all tenants with your own background check, and deny them if they fail to meet your requirements. (Just be aware that in many areas of the country, you cannot deny a Section 8 tenant only because they have a voucher.)
If you are looking for an opportunity to rent to Section 8 tenants, start by reaching out to your local housing authority.
- Contact the local housing authority.
First, contact the local HUD Public Housing Agency (commonly called a housing authority), and let them know of your interest in renting to Section 8 tenants. The housing authority can provide details about the local process and what Housing Quality Standards (HQS) need to be met.Housing authorities are not allowed to recommend a particular landlord or property to voucher holders. However, many housing authorities maintain a list of landlords who accept vouchers, and share this with their voucher households. The housing authority may also share access to websites or platforms used to advertise available units.Many housing authorities have an office in the local area, but there are also many communities that are not served by a locally-based agency. This is often the case in rural areas. Depending on your area, you may have to reach out to a regional or state housing authority that serves your community.You can use the Housing Authority Directory on Affordable Housing Online to find the agency that serves your area.
- Set rent that falls within area Fair Market Rents.
Now, it is up to you to set the monthly rent amount.The Section 8 program does not dictate what rents landlords must charge. However, rents must fall at or below local Fair Market Rents (FMRs). This is the cost to rent a moderately priced dwelling in each housing market.HUD updates FMRs for each state and metropolitan area annually. FMRs are set for different apartment sizes, ranging from efficiencies to four-bedroom units.The local housing authority will have the FMRs for its service area. You can also look up the current FMRs for your housing market using HUD’s FMR Documentation System.
- Make sure the unit meets Housing Quality Standards.
Housing authorities need to make sure that HCV tenants will be living in homes that are safe, sanitary, and in good condition. HUD has Housing Quality Standards (HQS) that must be met before an HCV tenant can rent an apartment.You can get details about meeting HQS from the local housing authority. HQS inspections will assess the following items:• Sanitary facilities
• Food preparation and refuse disposal
• Space and security
• Thermal environment
• Illumination and electricity
• Structure and materials
• Interior air quality
• Water supply
• Lead-based paint
• Access
• Site and neighborhood
• Sanitary conditions
• Smoke detectorsThe housing authority will inspect the unit before completing a rental assistance agreement with the landlord. Once the Section 8 tenant moves in, HQS inspections will be done annually.
- Review applications from Section 8 tenants.
You would screen Section 8 tenants the same as you would an applicant without a voucher. This includes common things like checking rental or criminal histories. You should use the same criteria for all applicants to avoid renting to problem tenants.Once a Section 8 tenant’s rental application is approved, you will need to fill out their Request for Tenancy Approval form.The housing authority will confirm the rent falls within area FMRs. The housing authority will also make sure the rent charged is not higher than rent for any comparable unassisted units at the property.
- Sign the HAP contract and start receiving rent payments!
Once a lease is signed with the Section 8 tenant and is submitted to the housing authority, you will receive a Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) contract to sign.When the HAP contract with the housing authority is executed, you will start receiving housing assistance payments from the housing authority. Section 8 tenants will separately pay you their own portion of the rent.
PAGE LINK: https://affordablehousingonline.com/what-is-section-8/become-a-landlord
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03-06-24 –
Low-Income Housing Without A Waiting List
Due to the high demand and low supply of affordable housing, it’s extremely rare to find affordable housing with no waiting list. But it’s possible to find housing assistance quickly if you know what to look for.
Tips to receive housing assistance quickly:
- Apply to multiple waiting lists for different low-income rental assistance programs.
- Take advantage of the mobility feature of the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program and apply for waiting lists anywhere in the United States.
- Target waiting lists with preferences you qualify for. Qualifying for preferences will give you priority placement on waiting lists.
- Use Affordable Housing Online for Housing Choice Voucher and Low-Income Apartment Waiting Lists
- Sign up for the Affordable Housing Online Newsletter to get waiting list opening notifications sent directly to your email
Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV)
Waiting lists to apply for this program open infrequently, and usually for a short time. If a household is able to get their application placed on the waiting list, the time it takes to get to the top of the waiting list could be months or years. The HCV program is in extremely high demand, and Affordable Housing Online has never discovered an area with a HCV program that has no waiting list.
Consider applying to HCV programs operated by Public Housing Agencies (PHAs, or housing authorities) in rural or small towns. Many of those areas will have shorter waiting lists, if it is open for applicants.
Be aware: You must be willing to move into their rural or small town jurisdictions for the first year of using your Housing Choice Voucher, and be in good standing at the end of the first year in order to move somewhere else with the voucher.
Note: Some PHAs set aside a small number of special Housing Choice Vouchers that are given to certain populations (like victims of domestic violence and homeless persons) without entering a waiting list.
And in other instances, a housing authority give some vouchers to persons living in toxic units (which contain lead paint, asbestos, radon, etc…); or in unhealthy units.
These special vouchers are not available to the general public, and may require a referral from a participating organization.
Section 8 Project-Based Vouchers (PBV)
A Section 8 Project-Based Voucher (PBV) is different from the HCV program, in that the voucher is tied to a specific apartment complex. A Project-Based Voucher cannot be transferred to a different property.
Waiting lists for Project-Based Vouchers are usually administered by the local HUD housing authority. Some PBV waiting lists might be administered by a property management company working with the housing authority.
Almost all Project-Based Voucher properties have a waiting list. Some properties in low-populated areas may have immediate availability, but that is rare.
Public Housing
Public Housing properties also offer rental assistance that’s tied to a specific apartment complex. Like Project-Based Vouchers, Public Housing assistance cannot be transferred to another property.
Waiting lists are either administered by a HUD housing authority, or a partnering property management company. As with PBVs, almost all Public Housing properties have a waiting list. On rare occasions, some properties in some rural areas may have no waiting list.
Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD)
RAD properties are Public Housing developments that were renovated with Section 8 program funding. Anyone on the property’s original Public Housing waiting list stays on the list, and current residents get first dibs for a RAD unit.
HUD housing authorities are actively converting our Public Housing stock to RAD housing nationwide. To find RAD housing without a waiting list right now might be difficult and not worth the time and effort.
Project Based Rental Assistance (PBRA)
The PBRA program is directly administered by HUD’s Office of Multifamily Housing. The PBRA program is tied to specific units in a property, usually owned and managed by private owners. Some PBRA properties are operated by the local housing authority.
On rare occasions, you may find a PBRA property with no waiting list, but generally only in rural areas.
Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC)
The LIHTC program is currently financing 90% of all new low-income housing developments. Private management companies and individual owners usually manage these communities; and some are managed by a housing authority.
There may be some LIHTC properties in areas with low populations that have no waiting list.
Rural Development (RD) Housing
Unlike most HUD programs, many apartments funded through Rural Development rental assistance programs may have a very short waiting list; or none at all.
These communities usually have a private owner or management company; but some are associated with housing authorities.
Households with the lowest incomes are given priority, so that means if you have very low or no income, you will get a chance to move into an apartment before other applicants.
Senior Housing and Housing for Persons with Disabilities
Many affordable housing developments are built for senior and/or disabled residents. In most cases, the head of household (or spouse) must be 62 and over, or have a certifiable disability. There are also “Near-Elderly” properties, which are usually for tenants at least 55 years old.
You may find Senior/Disabled properties with no waiting list in some low populated areas. And even if there is a wait, it may be shorter than other low-income rental assistance waiting lists.
PAGE LINK: https://affordablehousingonline.com/low-income-housing-without-a-waiting-list
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03-04-24
New Guide: What is Public Housing? |
When applying for a Public Housing apartment, knowing what to expect can help reduce the stress of the application process. Follow our step-by-step guide to learn how to qualify and apply for Public Housing: |
https://affordablehousingonline.com/what-is-public-housing |
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11-15-23
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Our housing experts not only put a spotlight on finding housing opportunities, but also detail the options renters have when facing an eviction notice. This easy-to-read guide can help you keep a roof over your head:
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https://affordablehousingonline.com/guide/eviction
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10-26-23
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Many affordable housing programs have accessibility accommodations for renters with disabilities. Learn how to qualify, get applications, and more in our easy-to-read guide!
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https://affordablehousingonline.com/guide/disability-housing
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10-19-23
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There are many types of low-income housing programs for seniors who are age 55 or 62, and above. Learn how to get applications, accessibility accommodations, and more in our easy to read guide!
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https://affordablehousingonline.com/guide/senior-housing
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10-16-23 How Do I Buy An Affordable Home?
There are many important steps to becoming a homeowner, and these details are important to know before starting to look for affordable homes that are for sale. Many services are also available for future homeowners — including mortgages, loans, and counseling — which provide great help for renters buying an affordable home.
https://affordablehousingonline.com/guide/homeownership
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10-16-23 How To Get Housing For Renters With A Criminal Record Guide
https://affordablehousingonline.com/guide/criminal-records-housing
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05-15-23 New Guide: Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Guide
The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program allows low and moderate-income renters to pay rent at an affordable rate.
The new edition of our LIHTC Guide has been completely re-written to be short and easy to follow for all renters.
page link: https://affordablehousingonline.com/guide/lihtc?trackcmp_email=connecticut%40homelesstoindependence.org&utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_content=%F0%9F%93%99+New+Guide%3A+Low-Income+Housing+Tax+Credit+Apartment+Guide&utm_campaign=Thursday+Broadcast+%28Info%29+05%2F11%2F23
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HUD launches online help for domestic violence survivors
February 8, 2023Chris Holden
Top Story: HUD launches online help for domestic violence survivors
HUD has recently launched a new webpage with resources for domestic violence survivors, under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).
The site has resources explaining VAWA’s housing protections for survivors of domestic violence. In addition, the site has resources for organizations that operate shelters and provide services for domestic violence survivors.
The VAWA site also has information to assist survivors immediately. It provides national hotlines and a list of organizations that can help survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking. The national hotlines and organizations can direct survivors to local organizations and services.
link to article and more: https://affordablehousingonline.com/blog/hud-launches-online-help-for-domestic-violence-survivors/?trackcmp_email=arkansas%40homelesstoindependence.org&utm_source=ActiveCampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_content=%F0%9F%93%B0+News%3A+HUD+launches+online+help+for+domestic+violence+survivors&utm_campaign=Wednesday+Broadcast+%28News%29+02+08+23&vgo_ee=lXABPYmBYuHi5wfm1psG2KZZzlLYDq6LjFLZ38twxQrDx7HCR22zp8cjrz5ZyNpB
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How to Find Housesitting Jobs and Get Paid to Sleep in Someone Else’s House
Contributor
UPDATED AUGUST 30, 2022
Getty Images
Instead of forking over a small fortune every month for rent, what if you could get someone to pay you to live in their house?
Housesitting is a gig that could provide you with weeks or even months of free housing. In some cases, the free housing is the “pay” you receive (think of it as the money you are not paying toward rent). But, there are also paying housesitting gigs, and there are numerous websites specifically created to match available housesitters with housesitting jobs both within the U.S. and internationally.
Often, housesitting jobs include more than just sitting around someone else’s house. Most often, additional duties include caring for pets and plants, although they can include maintenance and cleaning, too.
Before you start packing your bags, here’s what you need to know about housesitting jobs.
How to Become a Housesitter
You know the old saying: you can’t get a job without experience, and you can’t get experience without a job.
While it is possible to get a first-time housesitting job, the competition for such positions is fierce. There are a lot of people who like the idea of living for free in someone else’s home. So, it would behoove you to get some experience.
Consider your social network. Let friends, family and coworkers know you are thinking about becoming a housesittter, and ask them to give you an opportunity to prove yourself, along with a recommendation that will help you get your next position.
Since you are just starting out, you are not likely to be offered money for a housesitting job right away, but this is a good opportunity to get referrals and experience.
If no one you know speaks up, you can get a first-time job on a housesitter website (we’ll give you some options later), but you had best be ready to answer key questions and provide significant skills to get selected.
Can I Get Paid to Be a Housesitter?
You are already getting paid in kind. You have free housing. But, some jobs are extensive enough in terms of care that you will be offered a stipend. It is also possible to be rewarded for doing a good job with a tip at the end of the stay.
How Much Money Can You Make With Housesitting Jobs?
The
Economic Research Institute says the average housesitter salary in paid gigs is $15 an hour, although
care.com says most paid rates are negotiated between homeowner and housesitter, and can be up to $100 a day or more. Homeowners looking for more than just a human watchdog are likely to offer a salary for the period they will be gone from home.
Can You Have Another Job When You’re a Housesitter?
As a housesitter, you are effectively replacing the homeowner as a presence in the home. The homeowner likely has a job, or some responsibility that takes them away from the home from time to time. You can, too. It might work best if you have a part-time job to ensure your availability However, circumstances might allow you to have a full-time job and housesit as well.
PRO TIPIf there’s a reliable internet connection, working remotely is one way to earn extra money while you’re housesitting. Check out our
work-from-home jobs portal for opportunities.
How to Find Housesitting Jobs
If you’re going to make the leap to housesitting on a regular basis, you’ll likely need to rely on more than word of mouth. There are numerous websites offering housesitting jobs, although you can also go it alone.
Most of the sites require a subscription, since you are likely going to need to move from job to job over time and will reuse the site. Many also require a
background check. Here are some options to consider when looking for housesitting jobs.
Advertise Yourself
You may be able to get a housesitting job without paying for a website subscription, but it will require substantially more work on your part, including advertising, setting up payments and vetting clients. If you do go the solo route, consider starting on sites where homeowners may use to seek out someone who is local, like Craigslist and Nextdoor.
Use Housesitting Subscription Sites
The value of subscription services is that homeowners and pet owners are on these sites actively seeking someone to care for their home or loved one. Housesitters can find job offerings and contact the homeowners who have a listing that works for them. They can choose between homeowners looking for free housesitting services and those who are willing to pay.
- House Sitters America ($49 per year) Job seekers can provide their services free or for a fee on this site. You can search for jobs on the site, or create a profile that will attract homeowners to you.
- Housecarers.com ($50 per year) Your profile can include up to 14 photos of yourself, effectively creating a 15-page personal website for your housesitting services. You can preselect areas or types of jobs you are looking for before receiving matching job opportunities.
If You Want to Take Your Housesitting Abroad
What if you could use your housesitting gig to see the world?
Other than travel restrictions placed by the country you are visiting, there are no restrictions for being a housesitter in international settings. But it makes sense to also research the country you’ll be staying to ensure you can adhere to local customs and restrictions. Some sites to use if you want an international gig:
- Mind My House ($20 per year) More than one-third of the listings on Mind My House are for the United Kingdom and Europe, while 30% are American listings.
- Luxury House Sitting ($25 per year) This is a worldwide service, with listings in the U.S., Europe, parts of South America, Australia, and a few countries in Africa and Asia. The newest housesitting gigs pop up as you sign into your account.
- Trusted House Sitters ($129 per year). This is another service that offers worldwide opportunities. Job seekers get to list the dates they need housing and the locations they are willing to travel to.
Getty Images
What to Include in Your Housesitter Profile
Homeowners are looking for a trustworthy person to take care of their home, possessions and potentially their animal babies. A few of the top traits you should be able to demonstrate in your profile when looking for a housesitting job:
- Reliability. Homeowners are not going to give their house keys to just anyone. They need to know they can count on you to stay in the house, keep it clean, not throw any parties and pay attention to detail. Recommendations from previous housesitting clients or current employers can speak to your reliability. Multiple references and reviews can help you stand out.
- Availability. One of your main jobs as a housesitter is to make sure the home looks occupied to help prevent burglary or vandalism. That means you will be a constant presence on the property. You don’t have to stay there 24/7, but you have to occupy the home the way the homeowner would. Be clear about how your availability, including whether housesitting will be your sole job or if you’ll work outside the home.
- Home care skills. Can you unclog a toilet? Adjust a thermostat? Water plants regularly? In some cases, you will be asked to be a temporary caretaker rather than just a body occupying a space.
- Cleanliness. Part of your job may be to keep the house clean. If there isn’t a separate cleaning service, you may need to wash dishes (or use a dishwasher), clean toilets, sweep, vacuum and dust.
- Love of animals. Many homeowners want a housesitter just to take care of their dog, cat, rabbit, fish or bearded dragon. Duties can include taking the animal for a walk, feeding on a regular schedule and cleaning up after them. Photos of you with your own pet (or a friend’s pet) will help in your job profile.
- Specialty skills. Do you have any training to set you apart (and demand a higher rate), such as being certified in pet CPR?
Learn From Every Housesitting Job
Once you get a few housesitting jobs under your belt, you will get an idea of what gigs are available. This may cause you to reconsider, or it may cause you to expand your parameters for housesitting.
There are people who travel all over the world, moving from one housesitting assignment to another. Why shouldn’t it be you?
Kent McDill is a veteran journalist who has specialized in personal finance topics since 2013. He is a contributor to The Penny Hoarder.
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SECTION 8 HOUSING
https://affordablehousingonline.com/open-section-8-waiting-lists/New-York
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PUBLIC and PROJECT BASED SECTION 8 HOUSING LISTS
https://affordablehousingonline.com/public-housing-waiting-lists/New-York
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HOUSING RESOURCES:
Housing Opportunities
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ADDITIONAL PLACES TO FIND AFFORDABLE HOUSING OPTIONS
HUD.GOV HAS A FULL LIST OF SUBSIDIZED APARTMENTS IN NEW YORK,
provide one or more of the following pieces of information here:
https://www.hud.gov/states/new_york
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NATIONWIDE SITE WITH SECTION 8 RENTALS AND MORE AND IT IS KEPT UP TO DATE
https://www.gosection8.com/
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THE LETGO MOBILE APP HAS A HOUSING…
- SELECT “BROWSING”;
- SELECT “HOUSING”;
- CLICK THE “FILTERS” IN THE TOP RIGHT HAND CORNER;
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ZILLOW.COM
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REALTOR.COM HAS A RENTALS PAGE
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From that page you can enter the specific area you are looking for.
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If you are looking for a room to rent, to share an apartment or sublet an apartment,
GO TO: http://www.roomster.com/
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WEICHERT.COM
CLICK ON “FIND A RENTAL”
ENTER IN THE SEARCH BOX THE AREA YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A RENTAL
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HAS A HOUSING PAGE FOR PROPERTY RENTALS…
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UPDATED 03-16-24
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FIRST TIME HOME BUYER INFORMATION
FIRST TIME HOMEBUYER INFORMATIONAL SESSIONS IN KINGSTON, ULSTER COUNTY, NY
If you are interested in attending one of our First Time Homebuyer Informational Sessions in Kingston, NY, please call 845.331.9860 to register or email dfnostrand@rupco.org with the date you would like to attend, your name, email, phone number and mailing address.
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As I search for rentals throughout our state, I look for certain criteria:
1. I have decided to not list so many houses for rent, as apartments, in most cases do include heat. Please keep in mind that winter is at our door-step and the cost of heating is on the rise. The monthly rental may seem a bit higher priced, however, it will be worth it in the long-run.
2. I will not list housing that requires a fee for their service, nor a fee per call. I do agree with a fee, however for the back-ground and/or credit check, THE FEE IS APPROPRIATE, since those companies providing the background check and credit check do charge a fee for their services.
3. I will do my best to keep the maximum rental amount within the cost of living to your area, however, if Section 8 or TRA is accepted the rental amount may be more because there are times when the utilities are included.
4. I will not list without the rental amount included
5. I try not to list rental opportunities that offer “Option to Buy” – I have found that in most of these situations it does not work out properly for either party involved. I am working on a “First Time Home Purchaser” list of programs from throughout the State, that operates in an official capacity to help those that are working so diligently to raise their families and deserve to show something for their hard, hard work.
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