A Low-Income Apartment Could Be The Solution When Your Current Rent Is Too High
Posted on: 21 December 2018
The cost of renting an apartment or home has escalated in recent years. If you're an older adult, disabled, or have a low income, it's challenging to find a place to live that you can afford. All too often, you may be forced to pay so much for rent that you have to struggle to buy food and pay other bills. The solution might be in the form of low-income apartments. Here are some things to know.
Rent May Be Based On Income
There is no set rent for apartments in some low-income complexes. Instead, the amount you pay depends on your income. This is usually possible because the apartment complex participates in government programs that subsidize the rent. However, there may be other incentives for the apartment owner to create low-income housing, and in this case, the rent might be a low flat rate, but you may have to qualify for the apartment based on age or disability.
Understanding Qualifications May Be Difficult
Since there are different programs an apartment complex can participate in, it can be difficult to know when you're eligible for low-income housing. The best thing to do is consult with a rental service that works with low-income housing landlords or a social service agency that can provide you with a list of apartments and landlords in your city that rent to people with low incomes. You might be surprised to find more opportunities for housing than you thought were available. Once you have your list, narrow down your choices according to the most convenient place to live and start calling to ask about their qualifications. If you're not disabled or elderly, then you may need proof of income and other documentation. Once you know the places where you can rent and what information you need, you can start applying.
There Might Be A Wait List
Housing for individuals and families that have low incomes is in demand, and it may be difficult to find an apartment on the spur of the moment. Instead, plan ahead and get on a waiting list if there is one. You may have to live somewhere you don't like or that's a little inconvenient just so you can get in an apartment quicker. Finding the right place to live might take some work, especially if you need somewhere near a bus line or that is wheelchair accessible. Try working with a service that matches renters with available homes and apartments so you can cut down on unnecessary visits and phone calls. The service may narrow down your choices and help you get on a waitlist. They can also ensure your documents are in order so you won't run into problems when an apartment becomes available. Although it may seem like a hassle to get into low-income housing, it's worth it to get financial relief by living in an apartment you can actually afford that leaves you money for medicine, food, and other necessities.
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