Housing navigator

Job Title: Housing Navigator

Job Type: Full-time/Part-time, Temporary/Permanent

Job Summary:
As a Housing Navigator, you will play a crucial role in helping individuals and families secure suitable housing options and navigate the complexities of the housing market. Your main responsibility will be to assess clients' housing needs, provide support in locating affordable housing opportunities, and connect them with relevant resources and services. You will collaborate closely with community organizations, landlords, property managers, and government agencies to build partnerships and ensure optimal outcomes for clients facing housing challenges. The successful candidate for this role will possess excellent communication skills, empathy, adaptability, and a strong commitment to improving housing accessibility for vulnerable populations.

Responsibilities:
- Conduct comprehensive assessments of individuals and families seeking housing assistance by evaluating their needs, preferences, and resources available.
- Educate clients about available housing options, eligibility criteria, and government assistance programs such as subsidies, rental assistance, or housing vouchers.
- Assist clients in completing housing applications and securing necessary documents, such as income verification, references, or background checks.
- Research local rental market trends, property listings, and affordable housing resources to identify suitable housing opportunities that match clients' requirements and financial circumstances.
- Collaborate with landlords, property managers, and housing authorities to negotiate lease agreements, resolve housing-related issues, and advocate for clients' rights.
- Develop and maintain relationships with community organizations, nonprofit housing agencies, and social service providers to expand available housing inventory and supportive services resources.
- Provide ongoing support to clients during their housing search, including accompanying them to property viewings, attending housing interviews, or mediating conflicts between tenants and property owners.
- Conduct regular follow-ups with clients to ensure housing stability, address challenges, and provide referrals to additional support services such as financial counseling, legal aid, or mental health resources, as needed.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of client interactions, progress, and housing outcomes in compliance with internal protocols and funding requirements.
- Keep abreast of local housing policies, regulations, and market conditions to inform clients about relevant changes that may impact their housing options.

Qualifications and Skills:
- Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, sociology, or a related field preferred. However, relevant experience will also be considered.
- Previous experience in housing advocacy, housing counseling, case management, or a similar role is highly desirable.
- Understanding of housing programs, affordable housing resources, and the challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness, low-income families, or those at risk of housing instability.
- Knowledge of local housing laws, Fair Housing Act, and other relevant regulations governing housing rights and landlord-tenant relationships.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to establish rapport and effectively collaborate with diverse individuals, community partners, and external stakeholders.
- Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving abilities to manage multiple client cases, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
- Proficient computer skills, including experience with case management software, databases, and MS Office Suite.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality, adhere to ethical standards, and exercise discretion in handling sensitive client information.
- Bilingual proficiency in languages commonly spoken within the community will be an asset.

Note: This job description is not exhaustive and may be subject to change or amendments based on organizational needs.