Housing Acquisition Specialist

Five Keys Schools and Programs • San Francisco, CA

7d • $29 - $31 • Onsite

About The Position

The Housing Acquisition Specialist position reports to the Rehousing Acquisition Manager and is accountable for identifying and securing market-rate rental units to support innovative housing solutions for the local unhoused community. Leveraging program tools such as holding agreements to minimize vacancy loss, attractive rental subsidies, and damage mitigation funds, the Housing Acquisition Specialist actively seeks out, negotiates, and maintains listings of suitable available units. In addition to landlord acquisition, this role provides direct client support throughout the housing process, ensuring smooth transitions, informed decision-making, and successful tenancy. Coordinators conduct field work, home visits, and ongoing check-ins to support clients throughout their housing journey. We are looking for someone who insists on maintaining a positive attitude and enjoys supporting a diverse group of people. If this job is for you, you are a proactive, solutions-oriented professional who is passionate about improving housing outcomes for individuals experiencing homelessness, while creating value for local property owners. You also bring a strong understanding of the local rental market and housing practices, and you are ready to put your communication and relationship-building skills to work by engaging landlords and encouraging them to participate in our housing initiatives. This is a full-time, temporary position anticipated to last approximately two (2), based on business and operational needs.

Requirements

• Advanced proficiency in Zoom, Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, Excel, PowerPoint and databases
• Able to maintain strict confidentiality and take all precautions when handling sensitive information
• Proficient understanding of housing policies and procedures, including fair housing laws
• Ability to leverage strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage a diverse group of people
• Excellent problem solving, organizing, and verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to utilize critical thinking skills in decision-making situations, good organizational and recordkeeping skills, and good independent judgment
• Proficient in knowledge of housing policies and procedures, including fair housing laws
• Ability to tactfully resolve/mediate issues between landlord and tenants
• Ability to be flexible when scheduling and prioritizing of tasks
• Ability to work independently, frequently in the field for onsite meetings with tenants and landlords across the Bay Area
• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Access to reliable transportation, a valid California driver’s license, a clean driving record, and automobile insurance required
• Two years of experience working with supportive housing programs or similar housing initiatives

Nice To Haves

• Background in leasing, real estate, or property management preferred
• Experience with local rental markets, city planning, public policy, and housing subsidy programs preferred
• Strong sales and negotiation skills are highly desirable

Responsibilities

• Market program and build and maintain strong relationships with prospective landlords, property managers, and associations
• Maintain regular communication with landlords to support positive participant-landlord relationships and work collaboratively to proactively address concerns and resolve issues
• Ensure participants fully grasp program requirements, responsibilities, and expectations, and offer opportunities for questions to foster transparency and informed decision-making
• Maintain accurate and timely records of all participant interactions, appointments, and housing-related activities in the designated program system
• Assist participants with move-in logistics, including utility setup and reviewing lease terms, ensuring they understand their responsibilities and obligations
• Provide participants with information and guidance, empowering them to make informed housing decisions without making executive decisions on their behalf
• Communicate with participants in a supportive and empowering manner, providing information and guidance that enable them to make independent and informed housing decisions
• Conduct field visits activities, including canvassing to identify suitable neighborhoods, scout rental units, attend unit viewings and build relationships with property owners/managers
• Conduct inspections of housing units prior to participant move-in to ensure safety, habitability, and readiness
• Conduct regular home visits after move-in to monitor participant adjustment, address concerns, and support successful tenancy
• Identify and resolve issues related to housing acquisitions, working with landlords, case managers, and other stakeholders
• Work closely with case managers and other internal staff to ensure continuity of services and smooth program operations
• Other duties as assigned

Benefits

• Very low monthly costs for medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Generous time off
• Various pre-tax flexible spending accounts
• Retirement account 403(b)
• Annual reimbursements up to $100 towards gym membership, smoking cessation, and weight loss programs
• Annual athletic event participation and annual massages are reimbursed up to $50
• Company-paid benefits, including free wellness-related apps, an Employee Assistance Program, and a comprehensive mental health care platform, are available to you and your dependents

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED