Are you struggling to find and maintain stable, affordable housing? Are you feeling overwhelmed by the complex world of housing options and not sure where to turn? If so, comprehensive housing counseling may be exactly what you’re looking for.
Comprehensive housing counseling is a service that helps people navigate the maze of housing options and find the solution that best fits their needs and circumstances. It can be a valuable resource for anyone looking to find and maintain stable, affordable housing, but it can be especially beneficial for low-to-moderate income individuals and families who may face additional challenges in this area.
Though there are many good reasons to pursue the support and guidance of a HUD-certified housing counselor, here are just a few of the benefits we’ve identified:
First, a housing counselor can help you locate and apply for affordable housing options, such as government-subsidized apartments or vouchers, and provide guidance on budgeting and saving for a down payment on a home.
Second, even if you're able to find affordable housing, you may struggle to maintain it due to unexpected expenses, job loss, or health issues. A housing counselor can help you develop a plan to maintain stable housing, assisting you with budgeting and financial planning or connecting you with resources such as rental assistance programs.
Third, you may face various barriers to finding and maintaining housing, such as a lack of credit history, a criminal record, or a history of evictions. A housing counselor can help you overcome these barriers by providing guidance on how to build and improve credit, connect with resources such as expungement clinics, or negotiate with landlords.
Fourth, if you're interested in purchasing a home, the process can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate, especially for first-time buyers. A housing counselor can help you understand the homebuying process, identify and apply for affordable mortgage options, and provide guidance on budgeting and saving for a down payment.
Fifth, you may also face various housing-related issues, such as disputes with landlords, problems with the condition of your home, or difficulties paying your rent or mortgage. A housing counselor can help you address these issues by providing guidance on tenants' rights and responsibilities, connecting you with resources such as legal aid or repair assistance, and negotiating with landlords or mortgage companies.
As good as these benefits are, they're not the only reasons why you should engage a housing counselor, especially if you have kids. Children who grow up in a stable housing environment are more likely to have better physical and mental health, do better in school, and have more positive social and emotional development.
On the other hand, children who experience homelessness or unstable housing are more likely to suffer from physical and mental health problems, struggle in school, and have difficulty forming and maintaining healthy relationships. These are outcomes we’d like to help as many children as possible avoid.
For those looking to secure and maintain stable, affordable housing, comprehensive housing counseling can be an incredible resource, with benefits that go well beyond the joy of finding a home. If you or someone you know is in need of support and guidance in this area, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our comprehensive housing counseling team is here to help.