Housing Specialist

Westhab Inc.•Mount Vernon, NY

13d•$40,000 - $45,000•Onsite

About The Position

The housing specialist will help individuals and families with limited financial means obtain safe and affordable permanent housing in Westchester County.

Requirements

Work experience should include but is not limited to, negotiating lease agreements with landlords and/or realtor management companies and proving housing for special needs populations.
Knowledge of applicable state and city housing and disability laws and codes essential.
Must possess a valid driver’s license.
House 4 clients per month
Offer a minimum of 2 apartments per client per month
Communicate with each client a minimum of once per week
Enter two progress notes in HMIS per client per week. These notes consist of apartment searches and client interactions, (see Progress Note HMIS Guidelines)
Set aside two 2-hour blocks per week in your calendar for HMIS note entry

Nice To Haves

Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus

Responsibilities

Works collaboratively with co-workers, shelter staff, Rapid Re-Housing case managers and the Westchester County Department of Social Services to help individuals and families achieve their housing goals.
Develops and cultivates professional relationships with real estate brokers, landlords, and property management companies to obtain housing leads and housing resources.
Must be able to travel to various locations throughout the day.
Negotiates lease terms with and on behalf of individuals and families. Serve as mediator between clients and landlords/property managers.
Schedules and conducts intakes for individuals and families residing in Westchester County shelters.
Maintains accurate written HMIS progress notes for assigned case load. Liable for Keeping folders and reports up to date.
Identifies affordable housing, schedule and attend apartment viewings, conducts HQS inspections, and completes moving packets and leasing packets. Obtains mandated HUD documents to start or renew leases.
Participates in assigned housing fairs, internal and external weekly and monthly meetings as needed.
Conducts housing educational workshops at least once per month to provide individuals and families with information, resources, and skills to help them secure permanent housing.
Possess strong organizational skills to meet a demanding workload. Must be able to multitask, be detail oriented and be able to meet deadlines to complete requirements of files and contract compliance packets.
Ability to work some evenings and weekends as needed.
Report to VP (Vernon Plaza) 2-3 times a week.
Other duties as assigned by the Housing Team Supervisor, Program Coordinator, or the Director of Housing Services.