Uncategorized Archives - County Housing

The Landlord Bulletin

Posted on January 7, 2025January 9, 2025 by countyhousistg

January 2025 Landlord Newsletter

Welcome to The Landlord Bulletin

Dear Landlords,

We are excited to introduce The Landlord Bulletin, a new quarterly newsletter designed specifically for property owners. At County Housing, we recognize the vital role you play in providing safe and affordable housing to our community, and this newsletter is part of our commitment to fostering open communication and strong partnerships with our landlords.

In each issue, you’ll find important updates, helpful resources, and valuable tips to support your success as a Housing Choice Voucher program partner. From policy changes and inspection reminders to highlights of new initiatives and best practices, The Landlord Bulletin is here to keep you informed and engaged.

We look forward to using this newsletter to strengthen our collaboration and share meaningful insights. Thank you for your ongoing dedication to our shared mission of providing quality housing to those who need it most.

Sincerely,

Shannon Koenig
CEO, County Housing

Spotlight:

Summary of 2024 Property Owner Survey Findings

The results of the recent Property Owner Survey highlight significant improvements in satisfaction among landlords partnering with County Housing. Here are some key insights:

Simplified Onboarding Process: 68% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that the process of becoming a landlord with County Housing is straightforward, up from 41% in 2023.
Comfort with Inspection Requirements: 70% of respondents felt comfortable with biannual property inspection requirements, compared to 62% last year.
Positive Leasing Experiences: 65% of property owners reported having positive experiences leasing to County Housing residents, a notable increase from 48% in 2023.

Staff Knowledge and Availability

63% agreed that County Housing staff are knowledgeable in assisting with their questions, up from 43% in 2023.
48% felt staff were always available to answer questions, doubling from 22% last year.

Reduced Misconceptions: Only 31% of respondents felt that misconceptions about low-income housing affect their business, down from 56% last year.

These results underscore County Housing’s progress in improving processes, communication, and overall landlord satisfaction. Thank you to all who participated in the survey as we continue to build stronger partnerships and enhance your experience.

Featured Story

Understanding Small Area Fair Market Rents (SAFMRs): What It Means for Landlords

> Read the FAQs

At County Housing, we are adopting new standards to improve how we determine rent and provide rental assistance. These changes, focused on Small Area Fair Market Rents (SAFMRs), aim to ensure residents have access to safe, affordable housing in neighborhoods that meet their needs while helping landlords achieve fair compensation that reflects local market conditions.

What Are Small Area Fair Market Rents (SAFMRs)?
SAFMRs are a more precise version of Fair Market Rents (FMRs) that focus on ZIP codes rather than larger metropolitan regions. This method accounts for rent variations in different neighborhoods and ensures that housing assistance aligns with local market trends.

Why the Shift to SAFMRs?
Adopting SAFMRs allows County Housing to provide rental assistance more in line with actual neighborhood market conditions. For landlords, this means the rental assistance amount will better reflect the rental market in your area, creating more equitable and accurate compensation.

How Do SAFMRs Benefit Landlords?
SAFMRs can increase the pool of potential renters by giving voucher holders greater flexibility in where they can live. For properties in higher-cost ZIP codes, this change may lead to higher rental assistance amounts, making your property more accessible to voucher holders. For landlords in areas with lower average rents, SAFMRs help ensure consistent leasing opportunities while preventing over-subsidization.

What This Means for Your Tenants
Residents using Housing Choice Vouchers (HCVs) may experience adjustments to their rental assistance amounts based on the SAFMR for your property’s ZIP code. In higher-cost areas, assistance may increase, allowing tenants to afford higher rents. In lower-cost areas, adjustments will align with actual market rates, ensuring fair and balanced housing assistance.

Preparing for the Transition
We understand that policy changes can raise questions for landlords and tenants alike. To help you navigate this transition, we’ve made resources available on our website, including detailed information and FAQs. Our team is also available to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have.

By adopting SAFMRs, County Housing is striving to create more equitable opportunities for residents while fostering stronger partnerships with landlords. Thank you for playing an essential role in providing safe, affordable housing and for being a valued partner in this process. Together, we’re building communities where everyone has a place to call home.

A Place Called Home

Connecting Landlords with Residents

At County Housing, we believe that housing is more than just four walls and a roof – it’s the foundation where lives are built, dreams take shape, and families thrive. As a landlord, your role is pivotal in creating not just housing but homes for our residents. Together, we can make a profound impact on the lives of individuals and families in our community.

When you partner with us through the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, you’re offering more than a place to live – you’re providing stability, opportunity, and hope. For many residents, your property is the place where children will grow, where milestones will be celebrated, and where a sense of belonging can flourish.

We understand that managing properties comes with challenges, and we’re committed to supporting you every step of the way. From answering questions to streamlining processes, we want to ensure that your experience as a landlord is as seamless and rewarding as possible. If you need assistance or have any questions, our dedicated Landlord Liaisons are here to help. You can connect with them anytime via email at landlord@countyhousing.org.

By connecting landlords with residents, we’re fostering a stronger, more vibrant community. Your partnership helps create a place where every individual has the chance to feel safe, supported, and empowered – a true place to call home.

Thank you for all that you do to make a difference. Together, we’re not just providing housing; we’re building brighter futures.

Resource Highlight:

Landlord Portal

Did you know? Our Landlord Portal is your one-stop resource for managing your properties, accessing important documents, and staying up to date with County Housing news. Log in today to explore the latest tools and resources designed to make your job easier.

Important Information About the Landlord Portal
The County Housing Landlord Portal is a valuable tool for managing your properties and staying up to date on important information. Here are a few key things to know about using the portal effectively:

Portal Access: If new or existing landlords are locked out of the portal, it will automatically unlock within 30 minutes. You can reset and create a new password if needed.
Access Frequency: We recommend accessing the portal regularly – once a week, bi-weekly, or at least once a month to stay informed. Avoid prolonged periods of inactivity, as it may cause login issues or outdated information.
Inspection Reports: Inspection reports are uploaded to the portal within 24 hours, allowing you to quickly view whether an inspection has passed or failed.
Adding New Properties: The portal does not currently allow landlords to add new properties directly. To advertise a property, please contact a Landlord Liaison for instructions.
Caseworker Updates: If a tenant is assigned a new caseworker, the portal will update with this information within 30 days.
Forms Submission: The portal is not designed for submitting rent increase requests or change of ownership forms. To obtain and submit these forms:

Visit the County Housing website at countyhousing.org.
Go to Quick Links and select Landlords.
Under Key Files and Forms, print the required forms:
- Rent Increase Request: Email completed form to rent@countyhousing.org.
- Change of Ownership Form, W-9, and Direct Deposit Form: Email these to landlord@countyhousing.org.

By staying proactive and informed, you can make the most of the portal’s features to manage your properties efficiently. For further assistance, reach out to the Landlord Liaison team.

> Access the Portal

Preparing for NSPIRE:

What Landlords Need to Know

Starting October 1, 2025, County Housing will transition to NSPIRE (National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate) for Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) inspections. As a landlord, it’s important to stay informed about this change and how it may impact your rental properties.

What Is NSPIRE?
NSPIRE is a new inspection protocol developed by HUD to ensure rental properties meet consistent, high-quality standards for safety and livability. It simplifies inspection criteria while emphasizing the conditions that most directly affect the health and safety of residents.

Why the Change?
NSPIRE replaces the current Housing Quality Standards (HQS) to streamline the inspection process and better align it with modern housing standards. The goal is to improve the quality of housing available through the HCV program.

Start Preparing Early:
- Review the NSPIRE Checklist available on HUD’s website. This resource provides detailed guidance on what inspectors will be evaluating.
- Consider using the checklist as a tool to perform self-inspections of your units to ensure compliance.
Stay Updated:
- While the effective date for NSPIRE implementation is October 1, 2025, HUD may revise the standards or timeline before then.
- Regularly check HUD’s website or contact our team for updates on the final standards and timelines.

Support Is Available
County Housing is committed to helping you navigate this transition. Over the coming months, we’ll provide additional resources and updates to ensure you’re fully prepared.

If you have questions or need further information, visit HUD’s NSPIRE webpage or reach out to our office. Together, we can ensure this transition is smooth and beneficial for everyone involved.

Thank you for your partnership in providing safe, quality housing to our community!

Upcoming HUD Webinar for Landlords: Understanding NSPIRE for Vouchers

We are excited to share an important opportunity for our valued landlords! On February 26, 2025, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) will host a webinar specifically for landlords. This session will provide crucial insights into the new NSPIRE standards, essential for those participating in the Housing Choice Vouchers Program.

Webinar Details:

Date: February 26, 2025; 1-3 p.m. CT
Audience: Landlords, Public Housing Agencies (PHAs), maintenance staff, inspectors, and industry professionals
Registration: No advance registration required
Access: Information will be available on the Housing Choice Vouchers Program Trainings and Resources page. Sessions and presentation materials will be recorded and posted on the Past Trainings and Webinar page.

What You’ll Learn:

New NSPIRE standards for landlords
Key differences between HQS and NSPIRE
Deficiency types and correction timelines
Common deficiencies and how to address them
Best practices for compliance
Live Q&A session and more

This webinar is a great opportunity to get up to date on the latest standards and practices, ensuring smooth compliance and enhancing your understanding of the new requirements. We encourage all landlords to attend and take advantage of this valuable resource.

Stay informed and prepared; don’t miss this insightful session!

Ensuring Timely Payment Processing:

The Importance of Updating Move-Outs and Banking Information

To ensure payments are processed efficiently and accurately, it is crucial for landlords to promptly communicate any changes related to tenant move-outs or banking information. These updates help avoid delays and ensure that payments are directed correctly.

Why Timely Updates Are Essential
When landlords delay notifying County Housing about tenant move-outs or banking changes, it can lead to:

Payments being issued to outdated accounts or incorrect recipients.
Additional delays as payments may need to be voided and reissued, which can extend the processing time.

How Landlords Can Help
To help ensure smooth and timely processing, landlords should:

Report Move-Outs: Notify the tenant’s Caseworker immediately when a tenant moves out of the property.
Update Banking Information: Log into the Rentcafe portal to update any changes to your banking details (EFT information).

By keeping County Housing informed about these changes, landlords can avoid payment disruptions and ensure their payments are processed without delay.

For any questions or assistance, landlords are encouraged to reach out to the tenant’s Caseworker directly. Your cooperation in keeping us updated is greatly appreciated!

Contact Us:

The Voucher Voice

Posted on December 9, 2024December 9, 2024 by countyhousistg

December 2024 Housing Choice Voucher Program Resident Newsletter

CEO Message

Listening and Leading

Dear Residents,

As we approach the end of the year, I want to take a moment to reflect on all that we’ve accomplished together in 2024. It has been a year of progress, growth, and renewed commitment to ensuring that every resident has a safe, comfortable place to call home.

At County Housing, we are grateful for the opportunity to serve you and provide housing that supports stability and opportunity. In 2024, we worked hard to improve our services, enhance communication, and strengthen partnerships with community organizations to better meet your needs. We know there is always more to do, and we are committed to making 2025 even better.

As winter sets in, please be mindful of safety and comfort in your homes. If you have any maintenance needs, we encourage you to reach out directly to your landlord for assistance. Additionally, if you have questions about available resources, don’t hesitate to seek support. Stay safe and warm this season! Thank you for trusting us as your housing partner and for being part of this community. We look forward to continuing to serve you in the year ahead. Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a happy New Year!

Warmly,

Shannon Koenig
CEO, County Housing

Feature Story

Understanding Small Area Fair Market Rents (SAFMRs): What It Means for You

At County Housing, we are adopting new standards to improve the way we set rents and provide rental assistance, ensuring our residents have access to safe, affordable housing in neighborhoods that best meet their needs. These changes will impact how we determine rental assistance amounts, making it even more important for residents to understand Small Area Fair Market Rents (SAFMRs) and what they mean for you.

What Are Small Area Fair Market Rents (SAFMRs)?

SAFMRs are a version of Fair Market Rents (FMRs) that focus on smaller geographic areas, such as ZIP codes, rather than larger metropolitan regions. This helps us account for rent variations in different neighborhoods and ensures that housing assistance reflects local market conditions more accurately.

Why Are We Making This Change?

By adopting SAFMRs, County Housing is aligning with best practices to better serve our residents. This shift allows us to provide rental assistance that is more responsive to local market conditions, ensuring equity and flexibility in where voucher holders can live.

How Do SAFMRs Benefit Residents?

By using SAFMRs, County Housing can offer more flexibility in where voucher holders can live. In areas with higher rents, SAFMRs provide increased rental assistance, which gives residents more access to neighborhoods with better amenities, schools, and job opportunities. At the same time, in areas with lower rents, SAFMRs ensure that assistance levels align with the actual cost of housing, preventing overpayment.

How Does This Impact Your Housing Choice Voucher?

Residents using Housing Choice Vouchers (HCVs) may see adjustments to the rental assistance amounts based on the new SAFMR for their area. If you live in a higher-cost ZIP code, your voucher may cover more of the rent, giving you greater housing options. If your ZIP code has lower average rents, you might notice an adjustment, but our goal is to ensure every resident has access to safe, affordable housing in neighborhoods that best meet their needs.

Want to Learn More?

We understand that changes to housing policies can raise questions. Get more information on how SAFMRs work or how they may affect your voucher, or visit the Housing Voucher Program webpage, where we provide detailed resources and FAQs. You can also reach out to our team if you need personalized assistance.

County Housing remains committed to supporting you in finding and maintaining a home that fits your needs. Thank you for being part of our community!

Safe and Sound

Tips to Prevent Theft and Keep Your Home Secure

At County Housing, your safety is our priority. While we work to maintain secure communities, there are steps you can take to help prevent theft and protect your personal belongings. Below are a few simple tips to keep your home and neighborhood safe.

1. Lock Doors and Windows

Always lock your doors and windows, even when you’re home or just stepping out briefly.
Use deadbolts and window locks for extra security.

2. Keep Valuables Out of Sight

Avoid leaving expensive items like electronics, cash, or jewelry visible from windows.
Store bicycles, grills, and other outdoor items in a secure location.

3. Light Up Your Space

Use outdoor lights to brighten entryways, patios, and parking areas at night.
Consider using motion-sensor lights to deter unwanted visitors.

4. Get to Know Your Neighbors

Build relationships with neighbors to create a watchful and supportive community.
Report any suspicious activity to local authorities or property management.

5. Secure Your Vehicle

Always lock your car doors and never leave valuables inside.
Park in well-lit areas whenever possible.

6. Be Aware of Package Deliveries

If you receive packages, try to be home when they arrive or ask a neighbor to hold them for you.
Consider using package delivery lockers or services to keep items safe.

7. Report Maintenance Issues Promptly

A broken lock, damaged window, or burned-out exterior light can create an opportunity for theft.
To ensure your safety and comfort, notify your landlord immediately if you notice any maintenance issues in your home. Prompt reporting helps resolve problems quickly and keeps your home secure.

By taking these small steps, you help make our community safer and more secure for everyone. We appreciate your efforts in keeping your home and neighborhood theft-free!

If you have any concerns about safety or need additional resources, please reach out to our team. Together, we can build a safer, stronger community.

Stay safe and sound!

Community Connect

Supporting Our Community Together.

Welcome to “Community Connect,” a section dedicated to supporting our County Housing community together. Here, you’ll find resources, events, and initiatives designed to strengthen our neighborhoods, foster connections, and provide you with the tools and information you need. Together, we can continue to build a thriving community where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Discover Amazing Offerings from St. Louis County Library

Did you know the St. Louis County Library offers a variety of free programs and services to support families and individuals in our community? You don’t even need to be a library cardholder to take advantage of many of these incredible offerings!

Here are just a few of the ways the library is making a difference:

After School Meals & Summer Lunches
In partnership with Operation Food Search, select library branches provide free after-school meals and summer lunches for children ages 5–18.
Diaper Assistance
Families in need can pick up a monthly supply of diapers or training pants for children ages 3 and under through the library’s partnership with the St. Louis Area Diaper Bank. This service is available at select library branches.
Headspace Access
Library cardholders can enjoy free access to Headspace, an online resource offering meditation and mindfulness techniques to help you relax, focus, and improve overall well-being.

The St. Louis County Library is dedicated to enriching the lives of residents. Be sure to take advantage of these valuable resources by visiting your nearest library branch or exploring their offerings online at www.slcl.org to find library locations and more!

Managing Holiday Stress

Wellness Tips for a Peaceful Season

The holiday season is often filled with joy and celebration, but it can also bring added stress. Between shopping, planning events, and managing expectations, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Here are some simple wellness tips to help you stay balanced and enjoy the season to the fullest.

1. Set a Budget and Stick to It
Holiday spending can quickly add up but creating a budget can help you avoid financial stress. Create a list of necessary purchases and set limits on gifts, meals, and other expenses. Remember that meaningful gifts don’t have to be expensive—thoughtful gestures like homemade gifts or shared experiences can mean more than store-bought items.

2. Manage Your Time Wisely
With so many events and obligations, time can feel scarce during the holidays. Try making a schedule that prioritizes important activities and leaves room for rest. It’s okay to say no to things that don’t fit into your plans or that may add unnecessary stress.

3. Prioritize Self-Care
Amid the holiday hustle, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Whether it’s a walk outside, reading a book, or spending quiet time alone, carve out moments to recharge. Remember that a well-rested mind helps you handle stress better and be present for others.

4. Stay Active and Eat Mindfully
Physical activity is a great way to relieve stress. Even a short walk can boost your mood and energy. While it’s natural to enjoy holiday treats, try to maintain a balanced diet. Drinking plenty of water and limiting sugary foods can help you stay energized throughout the season.

5. Connect with Loved Ones
The holidays are a time to strengthen relationships. Whether through family traditions, friendly gatherings, or a simple phone call, connecting with those you care about can bring joy and reduce stress. However, if being with certain people causes anxiety, it’s okay to set healthy boundaries.

6. Practice Gratitude
Focusing on what you are grateful for can shift your mindset and reduce stress. Start or end each day by reflecting on a few things you appreciate, whether big or small. Sharing these moments of gratitude with others can also lift their spirits.

7. Reach Out for Support When Needed
If the holiday season feels overwhelming, you don’t have to go through it alone. Talk to friends, family, or community members for support. If stress becomes unmanageable, consider speaking with a counselor or accessing local mental health resources.

This holiday season, give yourself the gift of peace by focusing on what matters most—your well-being. With a little planning and mindfulness, you can reduce stress, savor the joy of the season, and head into the new year feeling refreshed.

From all of us at County Housing, we wish you a joyful and peaceful holiday season!

Understanding Renters’ Insurance

What You Need to Know

Renters’ insurance can be a valuable way to protect your personal belongings from unexpected events like theft or damage. While County Housing cannot require residents to purchase renters’ insurance, we encourage you to consider the benefits it offers for your peace of mind.

Renters’ insurance typically covers:

Personal property damage due to theft, fire, or water damage.
Liability coverage if someone is injured in your home.
Additional living expenses if your unit becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event.

Although it’s not mandatory, renters’ insurance is an affordable option to safeguard your belongings and avoid potential out-of-pocket expenses in the event of an emergency.

For more information about renters’ insurance, please reach out to your local insurance provider or check with community organizations that may offer resources.

Let’s work together to ensure you and your family have the tools and information to feel secure in your home!

Fair Housing Fact: Know Your Rights!

What is Housing Discrimination?

Housing discrimination occurs when a person is treated unfairly in a housing-related situation because of their race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability. It’s important to recognize the various forms housing discrimination can take, as this knowledge can empower individuals to stand up for their rights.

Here are some common examples of housing discrimination:

Denial of Housing: A landlord refuses to rent to a tenant based on their race, religion, or familial status, despite meeting all application requirements.

Different Terms and Conditions: A landlord offers different rental terms to applicants based on their national origin, such as higher security deposits or different payment schedules.

Refusal to Make Reasonable Accommodations: A landlord fails to allow a tenant with a disability to make necessary modifications to their unit, such as installing grab bars in the bathroom.

Harassment or Intimidation: A tenant experiences hostile behavior or threats from a landlord or neighbors because of their race, sex, or disability.

It’s crucial to know that housing discrimination is illegal, and you have rights that protect you from unfair treatment. If you suspect you have faced discrimination, it’s essential to document your experiences and seek help.

For more information on housing discrimination and how to file a complaint, please visit our website or contact the County Housing office. Together, we can create a fair and equitable housing environment for everyone.

Updates and Announcements

Holiday Office Closure: December 24th – January 1st

As the holiday season approaches, County Housing will be closing our offices at noon on December 24th and will remain closed through January 1st to allow our dedicated staff to enjoy this special time with their loved ones. We will resume normal operations on January 2nd.

We encourage our residents and partners to reach out to us before the closure for any urgent matters.

We wish everyone a joyful and peaceful holiday season and look forward to serving you in the new year!

Resident Connection

Posted on December 9, 2024December 9, 2024 by countyhousistg