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Renting

Renting gives you increased flexibility to move when you want. Maybe you don't like the neighbors, traffic pattern, smells, or sounds of a place. Or you need to leave for a less (or more) expensive place if your income changes. A move is easier if you are renting because renting involves less commitment. If you think you may move soon, renting may be better than owning a home.

When you rent, the manager is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep. Utilities such as water and electricity may be included in your monthly rent. When you rent, be prepared to make a deposit. This is usually the amount of one or two month's rent. You may also need proof of your income or employment.

Rent can be expensive. You may be eligible for rental subsidies. This means someone else will pay part of your rent cost. The government tries to provide subsidized housing for people with low incomes. You will pay 30% of your adjusted income for rent and utilities, and the government will pay the rest.

There are three rental assistance programs, Section 8 / Housing Choice, Public Housing and Elderly / Disabled Housing. These programs are administered by local Housing Authorities all over the state. You should contact your local Housing Authority to get an application. Each local Housing Authority may have a waiting list, so consider applying to each in the areas you want to live.

When you rent, you are responsible to:

• Pay your rent on time
• Obey the rules outlined in your lease
• Abide by the lease agreement
• Keep your apartment clean
• Notify the landlord if you need repairs
• Pay for damages that are your fault
• Allow the landlord to do inspections and make repairs

If you receive a rent subsidy you need to:

• Find your own apartment to rent
• Provide information to the Housing Authority when requested
• Allow the Housing Authority to do inspections
• Notify the Housing Authority in writing before moving
• Be honest and not commit fraud
• Not use drugs or be involved in any other criminal activity
• Be responsible for your behavior and the behavior of your guests

Another source of assistance is the Centers for Independent Living (CILS). An Independent Living Advocate can help you develop an action plan based on your housing and support needs, and on the resources you have available (both financial resources and the support of people). The advocate can help you locate housing in the area where you want to live, knows what is affordable and accessible in a particular region, and how to get on waiting lists for available programs. The advocate will help you strategize to make the most of your strengths in finding housing options and ways to make your current housing accessible.