Leasing Specialist - Housing Nonprofit (6522)

MERCY HOUSE•Santa Ana, CA

3d•$23 - $25•Onsite

About The Position

The Leasing Specialist is responsible for assisting homeless and at-risk families and individuals break free from the cycles of need toward greater economic opportunity, independence, and permanent housing. The objective of this position is to help households obtain/remain in stable housing through our Permanent Supportive Housing Program by cultivating positive and professional rapport with landlords and property management companies.

Requirements

At least 2 years of office-related and/or property management experience
Computer proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel is required
Ability to maintain and sustain current lease agreement forms
A valid CA driver’s license, proof of insurance, and a reliable vehicle are required.
Must be comfortable utilizing your own vehicle to conduct home visits, visit clients at shelters, meet clients out in the community, etc.
Ability to work effectively with a diverse population; plan, organize and prioritize duties; perform crisis intervention as needed; clearly communicate information and instructions verbally and in written form; maintain a positive, professional and safe environment while on duty; and establish and maintain effective working relationships with landlords and property management companies
Ability to navigate urgent matters while upholding a degree of flexibility
Dependability, responsibility, and the ability to communicate effectively and respectfully
Ability to meet a weekly quota of 15-25 calls per week (subject to change)
Ability to enter units with program staff as needed
Ability to lead and assist with Scattered Sites unit upkeep and turnover as needed
A flexible work schedule including some schedule changes, some weekends, and evening shifts to meet the department’s needs
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer

Responsibilities

Secure and maintain quality, affordable housing placements for clients
Develop an understanding of the County's housing market and establish strong business relationships in the for profit and nonprofit sectors (i.e., landlords, property managers, real estate owners/brokers, and developers)
Develop a strong understanding of the regional SPA housing market
Work collaboratively with leasing agents and share housing leads with case managers, navigators, and other program staff
Maintain current Permanent Supporting Housing Excel spreadsheet
Maintain a list of potential housing opportunities for homeless and at-risk of homelessness clients
Locate and secure traditional housing options at market rate and affordable/low-income units
Research and make cold calls to landlords to inquire about corporate housing opportunities
Answer and respond to phone queries, making referrals as needed
Assist with habitability and quarterly inspections
Assist at-risk households with maintaining their housing or relocating to more suitable housing
Maintain effective relationships with landlords and/or property managers by resolving conflicts and providing necessary emergency support
Provide support to Permanent Supportive Housing program staff
Collaborate with and act as a resource for Permanent Supportive Housing program staff on housing issues
Work closely with Permanent Supportive Housing case managers and become familiar with clients’ needs when challenges occur
Assist with gathering documentation for reasonable accommodations, move-ins, and/or relocations
Be knowledgeable about fair housing and legal concerns to advocate for the organization and the clients served
Maintain an understanding of Fair Housing Laws and keep informed on current legal issues and regulations related to housing
Consult with case managers and program staff on client related legal issues
Collaborate with upper management and attorney to draft and serve legal notices as needed
Participate in networking functions, community meetings, and meet with funders and partnering agencies related to the position
Assist with program activities when necessary
Attend staff/team meetings, training workshops, and staff building events
Develop new partnerships with other agencies to enhance our current services
Enhance job performance by applying up-to-date professional knowledge gained by attending seminars and conferences and reviewing professional publications
Perform ad hoc projects as appointed by Supervisor and upper management

Benefits

Flexible medical coverage options
Voluntary dental, vision, life, accident, critical illness, and hospital insurance
Paid Time Off
Flexible Spending Account
Employee Assistance Program
403(b) savings plan with up to 3% company matching
Paid on-the-job training and orientation
Mileage reimbursement
Referral program
Opportunities for career advancement