Finding Housing
Name one place where you can look for affordable housing.
A housing authority, housing website, property manager, or housing case manager.
Name one monthly expense you may have when living independently.
Rent, electricity, water, phone, food, or transportation.
What is a lease?
An agreement between a landlord and a tenant about renting a home.
Name one document that may be needed for a housing application.
Photo ID, proof of income, benefits letter, or rental history.
What number can you call for help finding community resources in the St. Louis area?
211.
What does a housing voucher help an eligible person pay for?
Rent.
What is a budget?
A plan for how you will spend and manage your money.
What should you do before signing a lease?
Read it, ask questions, and understand the costs, rules, and responsibilities.
Why is it important to answer calls or check messages from housing providers?
You could miss an appointment, document request, or housing offer.
Who can help you create a plan to find housing?
A case manager, housing navigator, or housing counselor.
Name two documents a landlord may request when you apply for an apartment
Photo ID, proof of income, benefits letter, rental history, or references.
Should you spend every dollar you receive before your next paycheck?
No. Plan for bills and essential needs and save for emergencies when possible.
What should you do if something in your apartment needs repair?
Notify the landlord in writing when possible and keep a copy.
What should you do if you miss a meeting with your case manager?
Contact them and arrange another appointment.
What is one way to get help finding affordable housing in St. Louis?
Contact the appropriate housing authority or a housing navigator and ask about current openings and waitlists.
You do not have a document needed for a housing application. What should you do?
Ask the housing provider whether another document is accepted and ask your case manager for help.
Name three expenses to plan for when moving into an apartment.
Rent, security deposit, utilities, food, moving costs, or household supplies.
Can you automatically stop paying rent because your landlord has not made a repair?
No. Rent-withholding laws vary. Get legal advice before withholding rent.
Name two habits that can help someone maintain housing.
Pay rent on time when possible, communicate with the landlord, follow lease terms, and keep the unit in good condition
If stress or health concerns make housing tasks difficult, what can you do?
Ask a trusted support person, case manager, or healthcare provider to help break tasks into manageable steps.
Someone online offers a cheap apartment but demands money before you can verify the property. What should you do?
Verify the landlord and property independently before sending money or personal information.
You have $100 left and several bills due. What is a good first step?
List due dates and essential needs, contact providers about options, and make a realistic plan.
You receive eviction papers. What should you do?
Do not ignore them. Check the deadlines and contact legal aid promptly.
You are offered an apartment but cannot afford the deposit. What could you do?
Ask about the deadline and contact your case manager to explore legitimate deposit assistance or other options.
Name three things you could do this week to move toward stable housing.
Gather documents, contact a housing provider, check a waitlist, attend an appointment, make a budget, or ask for help.