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Rent News, How-To's, and Advice

Helpful reads to guide you through finding and benefiting from
rental assistance and other housing programs

How to Get Your Landlord to Lower Your Rent

Rent prices can be really high sometimes, eating up a big part of what people earn, especially in places like Oakland and New York City where more than 70% of what households make goes straight to rent.  It often feels lik...

Maximizing Your Rental Assistance Benefits: Tips and Tricks

Finding help is a significant first step toward getting in control of your rent payments. Ensuring you get the most out of the assistance you receive is equally important. Here are a few tips and tricks to ...

Beware of Rental Fraud: Your Guide to Avoiding Common Scams

Finding a new place to call home is an exciting venture, but it also comes with potential pitfalls. Rental fraud is a real concern, and it's essential to stay informed to protect yourself from scams. We...

Landmark Legislation Protects Tenants Using Housing Assistance

In Michigan, a new rule has been established that changes the way landlords can select their tenants.  Governor Gretchen Whitmer recently signed a group of bills that make it illegal for landlords who ow...

How Rental Assistance Programs Impact Landlords and Housing Markets

Rental assistance programs play a crucial role in the ecosystem of housing, especially for low-income families.  These programs not only provide needed support to renters but also have significant e...

Relief for At-Risk Homeowners and Renters

While the economy has improved since the height of the pandemic, many households continue to struggle with housing costs. Fortunately, resources are available for at-risk homeowners and renters in need of assistance. Federal an...

Six Practical Tips to Enhance Landlord-Tenant Relations

Navigating your relationship with your property owner can significantly enhance your renting experience. While not all interactions may be seamless, cultivating a positive relationship with your landlord can lead to a ...

How Much of Your Income Should Go Towards Rent?

Before you jump onto rental websites to find your next home, it's important to work out how much you can afford to pay for rent without stressing your finances.   The 30% Rule A common approach is to use the 30% ...

Housing Costs for Seniors: Resources and Solutions for Financial Relief

Housing is the most significant expense for adults over the age of 55, taking up a large portion of their budgets, as seen in the Consumer Expenditure Survey.  Before the pandemic, close to 10 m...