Housing

   Many of our mentor clients are in need of stable housing. The Food and Care Coalition of Utah Valley offers short term shelter and first month rental assistance for singles and couples.

   In addition, the following resources are available in the community to assist your client's with their housing needs.

   Provo Housing Authority (PHA) provides public housing and subsidized rent programs for low income families and individuals, disabled individuals, and seniors living on fixed incomes. Currently there is a waiting list for these programs. To be put on a waiting list, you must complete an application and provide a copy of a Social Security card for everyone in your household. The FACC has housing applications available in our resource area.

   The PHA also offers the Family Self Sufficiency Program. This program helps individuals and families save money while working towards self sufficiency goals. For more information about these programs, please call 852-7080 or visit the PHA at 650 West 100 North, Provo.

   Community Action Services offers pre-ownership counseling and HUD approved first time homebuyer classes for those considering purchasing a home. First month rental funds and eviction assistance are also available. For more information, call Doris or Brenda at 373-8200.

   Habitat for Humanity of Utah County is committed to building simple, decent homes with those in need of affordable shelter. Habitat does not give away homes. Families are selected based on need and the ability to make a minimum house payment. Recipient families are required to put in 350 to 500 "sweat equity" hours and pay a down payment. After completion, the home is sold to the family based on the actual cost of construction with a 20-year no-interest loan. To qualify for the Habitat program a person must meet the following guidelines:

  • Attend family selection orientation meeting (the next meeting will be held in 8-9 months)
  • Have the same source of income for six months or show that a change within 3-6 months has improved family income.
  • Income is 25-50% of Median Income for Utah County.
  • Meet with Community Action for a budget review.
  • Currently live in substandard housing.
  • Be willing to partner with habitat affiliate.

For more information or to be put on the orientation meeting waiting list, call 344-8527.

   Apartment Tips

 The following tips have been suggested by Advantage Management, a local property management company.

    Finding an apartment
  • First impressions are important.
  • When looking at an apartment, always dress nicely and use proper language.
  • Be on time for showing appointments.
  • There are many resources are available to help locate apartments (local newspapers, housing authorities).
  • Only look for apartments in your price range.
  • Always be clear on who is going to occupy the apartment.
  • No pets!
  • Bad credit is not always detrimental. Be upfront with prospective landlord about bad credit and credit problems.
  • A solid employment history is important.
  • A good reference from a previous landlord is helpful.
  • Don't let upfront costs (security deposits, first and last month's rent) discourage you. Many landlords will work with you on these costs.
  • Open communication with prospective landlord is key.

    • Being a good tenant
  • Do not move out of apartment until end of lease term.
  • Be sure to honor terms of lease.
  • Don't move other people or pets in after you move in without permission of landlord.
  • Always communicate payment of rent concerns with landlord. Many landlords are willing to make payment arrangements if you are struggling.
  • Don't hold rent hostage for repairs or maintenance. It is against the law.
  • Good communication with landlord is important.

    • Landlord responsibilities
  • A good landlord will make repairs and address concerns in a timely manner (usually within a week)
  • Must always follow the law!