What does a Housing Specialist do?

Housing Specialists serve their communities by helping individuals obtain safe and stable lodging. These professionals work closely with community agencies to connect qualified individuals with financial assistance programs, civil legal aid and social services. They manage relationships with landlords, property managers and housing agencies to expand housing opportunities for clients.

Housing Specialists may work for nonprofit entities, government agencies, community action agencies and healthcare organizations. They provide efficient assistance, community education and advocacy for policy changes.

Housing Specialist skills and qualifications

Housing Specialists typically need strong interpersonal skills to connect with clients. Because the job may involve handling legal documents, multiple cases and recordkeeping, employers typically prioritize candidates who show strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

You may include these qualifications in your Housing Specialist job description:

• Experience in housing assistance, case management or human services
• Familiarity with affordable housing initiatives such as Section 8 and public housing
• A valid driver’s license for traveling to housing locations
• Familiarity with housing software and databases, such as Yardi and Scott Accounting and Computer Service (SACS) Software
• Knowledge of local housing laws and policies, including the Fair Housing Act

Housing Specialist experience requirements

Many employers seek job candidates with previous experience in housing assistance, case management or social services. Individuals may gain this exposure through volunteering with local community action agencies and nonprofit organizations, internships or paid employment.

Organizations that prioritize skills-first hiring may recruit candidates with related hard or soft skills, regardless of work history.

Housing Specialist education and training requirements

While formal education isn’t required for Housing Specialists, some employers may seek candidates with a bachelor’s degree in human services, social work or public administration.

Many Housing Specialists obtain a Housing Counseling Program certification through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Organizations may prioritize candidates who have completed the Certified Occupancy Specialist (COS) program through the National Center for Housing Management (NCHM).

Job description samples for similar positions

If a Housing Specialist’s job requirements don’t align with your needs, consider the following related job titles:

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker
• Social Worker
• Case Manager
• Case Worker

Housing Specialist job description FAQs

What’s the difference between a Housing Specialist and a Social Worker?

Housing Specialists primarily focus on housing-related issues, such as helping individuals find affordable lodging, submitting applications for financial assistance and understanding tenants’ rights. They typically know local housing laws and work closely with government agencies and nonprofit organizations.

Social Workers may provide a broader range of services. They can provide referrals for community resources, which may involve Housing Specialists, or connect individuals to healthcare services and counseling programs.

What are the career advancement opportunities for Housing Specialists?

Housing Specialists can advance their careers by pursuing higher education or refining their skill set. They can also gain experience in specialized areas of assistance. Advancement opportunities may include positions such as Senior Housing Specialist, Housing Program Manager and Director of Housing Services.

To support career advancement, you could provide ongoing training, mentorship opportunities and career development programs.

What interpersonal skills are essential for a Housing Specialist?

Candidates for a Housing Specialist position typically demonstrate empathy, active listening and effective communication. To evaluate these skills, employers can ask behavioral interview questions or role-play scenarios and note how candidates interact with others during the screening process.

Does Section 8 housing differ by state?

Public housing agencies (PHAs) determine whether candidates qualify for Section 8 housing, a voucher program accessible to certain applicants seeking low-income housing. Housing Specialists generally refer to the Housing Act, though local regulations may enforce different qualifications.