How to run a successful VASH program: Tip #2
Tip #2: Identify, educate, and prescreen owners.
The Housing First model incorporates intense case management services for veterans, but the more knowledgeable potential owners are in working with advocacy groups and case managers, the more successful the landlord/tenant relationship will be. Particularly, it's important to recruit owners who are willing to work with participants who may have significant screening barriers.
Outreach to owners interested in renting to veterans is a good first step. Prequalification of owners who may not have yet identified a tenant is another best practice. The Chicago Housing Authority, for example, offers an Owner Excellence Program (OEP) that screens owners to determine if they have any record of HQS or HAP contract violations before granting membership to those with a documented history of being responsible landlords. Under its Moving to Work (MTW) authority, the CHA reviews unit amenities and conducts a special inspection before designating a unit as "excellent." Chicago's OEP also provides vacancy claims as incentives to OEP members who re-rent their vacated units back to HCV participants.
Other landlord incentives that have proven to be effective for high-performing VASH programs include covering the security deposit and moving costs for the veteran, paying for repair of damages, and/or cosigning the lease. Typically, these initiatives are sponsored by the VA; however, some PHAs with HUD approval and/or MTW authority can sponsor certain VASH initiatives as well. You should check with your legal counsel and local HUD office before implementing incentives if you aren't an MTW agency.
Part of the prescreening or qualification process should include mandatory training for owners. The training should cover basic rules governing the HCV program and the nuances of how special programs like VASH work. Chronically homeless veterans can be a challenging population with unique needs. It's important that owners understand those needs and know where to go for help if and when an issue arises, since vets have a huge continuum of care under the VASH program.
For significant cost savings, make your owner trainings and seminars available online at your PHA's website or some other easily viewed location. Busy owners enjoy the flexibility of accessing this information at their leisure.
Next: How to run a successful VASH program: Tip #3
With an exceptional knowledge of HUD regulations, NMA senior trainer and consultant Cydney Jones is expert in providing a wide range of technical assistance, management training, and on-site expertise for multifamily assisted programs and the HCV program. Ms. Jones recently headed operations for NMA’s contract with one of the largest public housing authorities in the country, including administration of VASH vouchers.
Looking for an easy, effective way to introduce owners to your HCV program? Nan McKay and Associates offers a comprehensive guide for landlords in the NMA Owner's Handbook, with bulk pricing available. For information, contact sales@nanmckay.com.
