Housing

Housing

With a less-than-1% vacancy rate, finding housing in Sonoma County can be very challenging. The following list includes some things to consider when searching for housing:

• Check your local, low-income housing inventory and apply to their properties and wait lists.
• Apply for Section 8 – a housing assistance program for low-income households – in your city and/or county.
• Treat your housing search like an employment search; create a rental packet that includes a rental resume (complete with your rental history, basic information, references, etc.), a cover letter to introduce yourself and highlight traits that make you a desirable tenant, current credit report, income statements, and letters of reference.
• Search on-line sites and network with family, friends, and social groups.
• Act quickly and be responsive! There is a lot of competition in today’s housing market, which means you need to be ready to respond quickly to potential landlords.
• Consider a share rental or adding a roommate to your household. Shared rentals can be more affordable and easier to locate than traditional housing in some areas.
• Get help! There are some government programs and local non-profit organizations that can assist with providing rental assistance and paying security deposits.
• Know your rights! If you are served with a 3-day, 30, 60, or 90-day notice to move, seek legal advice immediately. If you cannot afford legal assistance, there are local, non-profit groups that can assist you.