Housing
More about becoming a rental provider
Why share your house?
There are many reasons, and the arrangement needs to work for you and your family – as well as for your renter – it must be a win : win.
Reasons to share your house could include: a passion to help people in difficult circumstances; available spare bedrooms but this not yet the right time to downsize; a desire to share the blessings you have received; you would enjoy company and be less lonely; appreciate the increased income and/or some help about the house or you have tried short holiday rentals, but found they are hard work. The reasons are always personal and this is not for everyone. While you are thinking and praying about it, these documentaries and articles may interest you.
Under Cover This documentary shares the lives of some Australian women and exposes the sad reality that women over 50 are the the fastest growing group of people experiencing homelessness in Australia. Available on ABC iview by clicking this link Under Cover.
Millions of Empty Bedrooms In the midst of a housing crisis, roughly 12 million bedrooms sit empty — but Marjorie Johnston and Sabrina James found each other via a home share scheme and have thrived under the arrangement: Mrs Johnston can live in her own home and receives help with meals and her weekly shop, and Ms James pays subsidised rent in Sydney ‘expensive rental market. The article is available by clicking ABC News: Millions of Empty Bedrooms, 31 July 2024.
The role of older Australians in the housing crisis: spare bedrooms, taxation, and pensions By examining tax incentives and pension arrangements, this paper suggests ways that may incentivise Australians to take in a lodger, providing needed affordable rental accommodation and assisting with their cost of living. By Dr Lyndall Bryant, a Senior Lecturer and researcher at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) Business and Law Faculty, specialises in Property Economics. She is the Chair of the QUT Housing Security Research Group. Click The role of older Australians in addressing the housing crisis: Sept 2024
Message from the Mayor of Whitehorse City Council. Councillor Denise Massoud summarizes the affordable housing challenges in the Whitehorse City Council area. The video of available by clicking Whitehorse City Council Housing challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If you are thinking about being a rental provider these FAQ may help — and we have a sheet with more information available on request.
Q If I complete the WCC online ‘Housing Information form’ does it commit me to anything?
No, it does not commit you. The form will make an initial conversation easier if we can see the type of accommodation available, your preferences and other details. Your information will not be used (other than for the discussion) until you have told us you are ‘Ready to share’. Then with your permission, we will share the housing details (without personal details) with the three social service agencies.
Q Does the property have to be in the Whitehorse council area?
No, it doesn’t, but it needs to be near enough for people who are assisted by Crossway LifeCare, Prison Network and Stairway urban team. So, within a few kilometres of Whitehorse is fine. Many people work in other areas and a property near their work could be just what they need.
Q What is the minimum time the property needs to be available for?
The housing should be available for six months, but ideally longer. WCC is helping with ‘transitional housing’ – to help people get out of emergency situations to where they can feel secure, settle and work, before looking for a longer term private or public housing arrangement.
Q I urgently need help to find housing, can you help me?
WCC is trying to increase the supply low cost housing options. We are working with the three partner agencies, because WCC does not have the capacity or skills to support individuals looking for housing. Regrettably, we are unable to respond to individual requests for help. Ask Izzy includes information about housing services and includes links to designated housing providers and other organizations who may be able to help.
We can also share;
- Case stories and videos from rental providers about why they share their home, the rooms they rent out, who has stayed with them and why they continue.
- Renters video stories their background, why they needed a home, and the impact of having someone rent them a safe space to live.
- Advice for rental providers First-Timers Do’s and Don’ts; Best and worst experiences; Handling difficult situations, and Rental Agreements – what to include (based on Consumer Affairs Victoria advice with inputs from experienced rental providers)
If you want to find out more, discuss ideas and options, please email us at housing@whitehorsechurchescare.org.au and arrange a time to talk. But before we talk please complete a
The form asks about your available space, who you would like to help, and the type of renter(s) to suit your circumstances. This will help in discussing your situation and preferences. You will not be committing yourself to anything.