The thought of waking up every day worried about paying rent disturbs you. Consider working two jobs but still fighting to put a roof over your head; this is how hundreds of thousands of residents in Chicago find themselves having to live. Definitely, the call for affordable housing is something quite lived by many.
Chicago is a vibrant and very active society, but it also has a very bitter taste, for it has a lot of challenges to overcome. One of the biggest challenges in the city has been all those residents who do not find places for them that are affordable. This is a pretty big affair.
Navigate through affordable housing in Chicago using this article. It has been enriched with steering tips and resources. Find a home that you can truly afford.
Understanding the Affordable Housing Challenge in Chicago
The affordable housing issue in the city is very wide as most people do not earn up to what is required to pay rent. This often makes the misery cut across families, old people, as well as single persons.
Definition of affordable in Chicago
What is meant in Chicago by “affordable”? “Affordable” is attached to the income one draws, in Chicago. AMI-the Area Median Income-is significant to that.
Affordable housing costs no more than 30% of one’s income. Say for example, if the AMI of a family is $80,000-a people making $2,000 monthly will be able to afford rent-but what if you earn less? Quite a number can hardly even meet that amount.
Some Causes Behind the Shortage
Why is there a shortage, anyway? There is gentrification that raises prices in certain neighborhoods, stagnant wages as compared to a rising price index, and, in the end, supply of affordable units is not built out enough- call it a mixed economy and development issue.
Navigating Chicago’s Affordable Housing Programs
Lucky for you, there are programs out there designed to help you. From city to state to federal level.
Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) and Public Housing
The City of Chicago administers the public housing program. The low-income families housing. It basically talks about income eligibility and family size. You need to be patient and persistent since the application can take some time before the decision is made.
Housing Choice Voucher Program (Pier 8) in Chicago
Another program of interest is the Section 8, or what is increasingly known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program. To help pay rent, you find a landlord that accepts vouchers, and the program pays a part of your rent directly.
Finding a landlord that takes vouchers is key here. Many wouldn’t, so keep looking. You can find information about local websites and groups that might help you in your search.
Tax Credit Programs and Subsidized Housing
Another possible option is LIHTC properties. Such apartments are where the developer can take a tax break in consideration of lowering rent. Look for LIHTC properties around your chosen neighborhood.
Finding Affordable Neighborhoods in Chicago
Where can you find the best from the very affordable places? Some areas will offer more options than others.
Northwest Side: Logan Square, Avondale, and Hermosa
Housing for Logan Square, Avondale, and Hermosa is an extensive mix of the city’s diverse transportation convenience. The Blue Line connects you with the rest of the city. It has various neighborhoods with their own shops.
South Side: Pilsen, Little Village, and Bronzeville
Pilsen, Little Village, and bronzeville are neighborhoods rich in culture and some very affordable choices. All of these areas present rich cultural experiences. Public transportation is easy to travel around.
Southwest Side: Brighton Park and Gage Park
These two communities, sited on Chicago’s Southwest Side, afford more opportunities for affordability and may be family-friendly enough to remedy the short fall of what you’re looking for.
Tips on How to Get Affordable Housing in Chicago
It takes effort to get affordable housing. Here are a few points for consideration.
Get Your Application in Shape
Get your documents ready. When it comes to landlords, they will check your credit history. Rental history is also going to be needed. Prepare to show proof of income. Being prepared is a must here.
Networking and Utilizing Community Resources
There are local organizations that can help you. Nonprofit and advocacy groups provide support. They can offer great resources and valuable information. Don’t be afraid to ask.
Understanding Your Rights as a Tenant
Know your rights. Chicago has fair housing laws. You have protection against eviction. Know your rights.
Resources for Affordable Housing Assistance
Here are excellent sources that guide you to assistance.
City of Chicago Department of Housing
City of Chicago Department of Housing offers housing programs. You can check their site for application and the qualification thereof.
LUCHA Chicago
LUCHA Chicago does housing counseling and financial coaching. They will have assistance in locating a new home.
Legal Assistance Resources
Legal Aid Chicago offers free housing-related legal assistance. They will enlighten you about your rights as a tenant.
Conclusion
It may not be easy to find affordable housing in Chicago. It requires a lot of patience and effort. Know your options. Use available resources.
Stay persistent. Network with the community groups. Know your tenant rights. You can find your place in the Windy City. This is the hope of this article.
