Privately Owned Subsidized Housing
 - AN OVERVIEW -

For more information, click on the questions below:

What is private subsidized housing?

Private subsidized housing is affordable rental housing for low and moderate-income families, elders, and the disabled. It is owned and managed privately. The government gives funds, called "subsidies," to private housing developers. In return, the housing developers charge low rents to eligible households.

Am I eligible?

To be eligible for private subsidized housing, you must meet income guidelines. Your past history as a tenant and your criminal record must show that you will be a good tenant.

Eligibility Check

The Rental Assistance Eligibility Check is an easy way for you to find out if you are likely to qualify for private subsidized housing, by answering questions online about your family, your income, and your expenses. You will see the results of the eligibility check right away, on your computer screen.

What rent will I pay?

There are several types of private subsidized housing. In some, your rent will be a percentage of your income. In others, your rent will not depend on your income. If you live in an apartment with a project-based Section 8 subsidy or Massachusetts rental voucher (MRVP), you will pay about 30% of your income for rent.

How do I apply?

For many private subsidized housing developments, you must go directly to the housing management office where you wish to apply. For others, you must apply at your local Housing Authority or regional DHCD housing agency. To find subsidized apartments in your city or town, use the Subsidized Apartment Search on the HUD web site and MassHousing's Rental Housing List. Your local housing authority and regional DHCD housing agency will also have information about subsidized housing in your community. The waiting list for subsidized apartments is usually long.

Useful links

Links to other web sites with information about privately owned subsidized housing.

Privately Owned Subsidized Housing section last updated on 10/09/09