The Impacts of Affordable Housing on Education

Access to stable and affordable housing is a fundamental right and plays a crucial role in shaping various aspects of an individual’s life. Among its many effects, one of the most significant is its impact on education, especially for children. Stable housing provides a secure and peaceful environment that fosters learning and personal growth. In this blog post, we will explore how affordable housing positively affects education and why it is essential to advocate for policies that prioritize housing stability for families.

Better Student Achievement

Research has consistently shown that stable and affordable housing has a direct positive impact on student achievement. When children have a stable home, they are more likely to focus on their studies and perform better academically. Statistics reveal that students living in affordable housing have higher grades and test scores compared to those facing housing instability.

A secure living environment plays a critical role in promoting focused learning. Children in stable homes are less likely to worry about frequent moves or financial hardships, allowing them to concentrate on their studies. This leads to improved cognitive development and academic success.

Reduced Absenteeism

Affordable housing contributes to reduced absenteeism rates among students. Frequent moves and housing instability can disrupt a child’s education, leading to higher rates of absenteeism. When families struggle to find affordable homes and keep up with housing expenses, children may be forced to change schools frequently, impacting their attendance.

Stable housing ensures that students can attend school regularly without disruptions, leading to better overall performance and a greater sense of belonging within the school community.

Reduced Student Turnover Rates

High student turnover rates have detrimental effects on both teachers and classmates. When students frequently change schools due to housing issues, it becomes challenging for them to form strong relationships with peers and teachers. This lack of stability can hinder their academic progress and emotional well-being.

Affordable housing helps reduce unwanted moves, providing students with a stable learning environment. As a result, they can build stronger relationships with teachers and classmates, enhancing their overall educational experience.

Improved Access to Neighborhoods of Opportunity

Housing assistance that ensures affordable options for families can also have a profound impact on children’s education by providing access to safe and opportunity-rich neighborhoods. Living in areas with better schools, resources, and community support can significantly influence a child’s educational achievement.

Affordable housing acts as a stepping stone towards higher education and better future opportunities. When families have access to stable homes in good neighborhoods, children are more likely to be exposed to positive influences, leading to long-term benefits for their education and personal development.

Conclusion

In conclusion, stable and affordable housing is not only a basic necessity but also a crucial factor in promoting children’s educational success. The positive impacts of affordable housing on education are far-reaching, from better student achievement and reduced absenteeism to improved classroom dynamics and access to better opportunities.

As a society, we must recognize the importance of affordable housing and advocate for policies that prioritize housing stability for families. By supporting organizations and initiatives that work towards providing affordable housing options, we can create a positive and lasting impact on children’s education and their overall well-being.

Advocate for Affordable Housing and Support Policies

To make a difference, we can take action by supporting organizations that work tirelessly to provide affordable housing options for families in need. By joining or donating to these initiatives, we contribute directly to creating stable living environments that positively impact education.

To learn more and get involved in affordable housing advocacy, readers can visit reputable websites and resources that offer valuable information and opportunities for engagement. Additionally, spreading awareness about the impact of affordable housing on education and engaging in conversations with friends, family, and policymakers can create a ripple effect of change.

By working collectively, we can create a ripple effect of change, ensuring that affordable housing remains at the forefront of our communities. At Olympia Management, Inc., we are dedicated to providing exceptional affordable housing solutions that prioritize tenant well-being, security, and peace of mind. Let us champion affordable housing as we invest in the future of our children and the prosperity of our society as a whole.

How to Find Affordable Housing

Rental rates are on the rise nationwide, and while rental properties in the Southeast tend to be cheaper than the national average, many individuals and families still have trouble affording the rising rents. If you are struggling to find affordable housing for yourself or your family, the following guide should help point you in the right direction.

Determine Your Needs and Budget

Any search for housing starts with knowing two important things: what you need in a living space, and what you can afford to pay. Start by asking yourself the following basic questions:

  • How much space do I need? In other words, how many bedrooms/bathrooms? How much square footage? What are your storage needs?
  • What kind of amenities do I need or want? Do you need a washer/dryer in the unit, or will community laundry suffice? Do you need central heat/air? Is a clubhouse or fitness center important to you? Do you want to live in a newly constructed complex? Do you have a disability that requires accessibility features?
  • What kind of location do I need? Is there a particular neighborhood you’re looking for? Do you need to be close to work, dining or shopping? Do you need access to public transportation?
  • How much can I reasonably afford in rent? Typically, your rent should be no more than 1/3 of your household’s total monthly income.

Lease agreement document with calculator

Qualifying For Assistance

Federal and state government agencies offer a number of programs to help low-income individuals and families afford their rent. Some rental properties designate some or all of their units as income-based or income-restricted, receiving government subsidies to cover the portion of the rent that you may not be able to afford. If you are a veteran, there may be additional programs available to you. To see if you qualify to receive assistance, the best starting point is to check with your local housing authority. (Check the HUD website to find contact information for local agencies.) For more information on how to qualify for assistance, click here.

Once you have qualified, your local agency should be able to direct you to rental properties in your area that participate in these subsidized programs.

Search for Housing and Resources in Your Area

If you have Internet access, one of the easiest ways to find affordable housing is to do a simple Google search to find available resources in your area. For example, if you’re looking for a place to live in Alabama, you can type in “Affordable housing in Alabama,” or even be more specific: “Affordable housing in Jackson, Alabama.” Many apartment communities and rent management companies now have an online presence. Once you find a property you’re interested in, you can look at floor plans, rental rates, and qualifying programs before visiting them in person to see if they have what you’re looking for.

Olympia Management oversees many high-quality affordable housing properties throughout the Southeast. If one of them suits your needs, we’re happy to talk with you about your options. For more information, call us today at 256-894-2382.

Finding Affordable Housing in Waynesboro, Georgia

For individuals and families in need of affordable housing in Waynesboro, Georgia, the newly constructed Pine Trails community welcomes you home. Set in a quiet, serene setting just a half mile from the center of town, this inviting complex offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and affordability to its residents.

About Pine Trails

Constructed on 18-plus acres among the pines, Pine Trails offers 60 brand-new apartments built for energy efficiency and low maintenance. Each unit is equipped with Energy Star appliances (range, dishwasher, refrigerator with ice maker), along with mini-blinds and a washer/dryer connection. Each apartment also opens to a private patio/balcony area with additional outside storage. The complex itself offers such amenities as a community clubhouse with kitchen, laundry facilities, outdoor gazebo with BBQ grills, playground and an activity center with planned events throughout the year. A convenient bus stop on the premises provides easy access to public transportation. Pine Trails is conveniently located along the main east-west artery moments from the center of town. A variety of shops, restaurants, medical services, houses of worship and grocery stores are all located within a mile of the community.

About Waynesboro

Located about 30 miles south of Augusta, Georgia, the town of Waynesboro is home to about 5800 people, bearing the nickname “Bird Dog Capital of the World.” First settled shortly after the Revolutionary War, the town was the site of a noted Civil War battle as Confederate troops resisted General Sherman’s March to the Sea. Officially incorporated in 1883, Waynesboro’s downtown district is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Today, Waynesboro is seeing a fresh wave of development with plenty of job potential for working families. Along with attractions such as the Burke County Museum and the Confederate Memorial Cemetery, residents enjoy outdoor activities at local parks and along the four-mile Greenway Trail which connects to multiple neighborhoods and the downtown area.

Pine Trails is an income-restricted community designed to provide affordable housing to qualifying individuals and families. We invite you to take a tour of this wonderful new community and find your new home here. To schedule an appointment, call Olympia Property Management today at 256-894-2382.

4 Resources for Finding Inexpensive Senior Housing

As rental rates continue to rise across the nation, senior citizens on a fixed income continue to feel the pinch. The economic crunch can be even more severe as seniors get older and require more care and services. Even for those who have managed to save a nice “nest egg,” it doesn’t take long these days for savings to be depleted — and many seniors don’t even have that luxury. How can seniors live comfortably and affordably at a time when continue to rise?

Fortunately, there are options for older citizens to find inexpensive senior housing — if you qualify and know where to look. If you’re over the age of 55 and struggling to find a rent you can afford, here are four resources for which you may be eligible.

Veterans Senior Housing Benefits

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a wide range of assistance options for people who have served in the armed forces, from medical benefits to pensions and senior care benefits. If you are a spouse or survivor of a deceased veteran, you may also be eligible for assistance. The VA offers a number of benefits in addition to pensions that may help with housing costs, including Aid & Attendance (if you require in-home care or are bedridden), Housebound benefits and others. Even if you don’t need extended care at this time, some of the benefits may help offset your rent. Check with your local VA office to find out which services you may qualify to receive.

Faith-Based Senior Living

Another resource many seniors overlook in seeking inexpensive senior housing is the help of their religious organization, denomination or house of worship. Many denominations and religious organizations provide financial, housing and senior care assistance for their older members. In many cases, as with many Catholic charities like the Sisters of Mercy and Catholic Community Services, you don’t have to subscribe to that particular religion or denomination to receive the benefits or to live in their senior living or assisted living facilities. Start by checking with your local church or synagogue to see what programs they may offer. For a list of faith-based organizations that may offer senior housing assistance, click here.

Masonic Senior Living

If you or your spouse is/was a member of the Freemasons, you may also be eligible for a number of senior living options these organizations offer. The Masons are known for taking care of their elderly members and families, and they offer a variety of benefits including independent senior living, assisted living, home care and more. Check with your local Masonic organization to see what housing options they may offer for seniors on a limited income.

HUD Senior Living

If you are 55 and over and need affordable housing, you may be eligible for government programs that enable you to live in comfortable, affordable housing designated for senior living. These benefits are underwritten by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and may include public housing (government-administrated), multi-family subsidized senior housing, and housing vouchers that enable you to choose from eligible properties. To see if you qualify for HUD senior housing programs, check with your local housing authority.

Olympia Property Management is pleased to administer many safe and affordable housing complexes designed to meet the needs of senior citizens. To see what we have available in your area, call us today at 256-894-2382.

Vista Ridge Offers Affordable Living in Soddy-Daisy, Tennessee

Located at the base of the Cumberland Plateau in the bedroom community of Soddy-Daisy, Tennessee, Vista Ridge offers a variety of spacious and affordable apartments for low-income families, providing an excellent combination of comfort, convenience and suburban living. Close enough to the amenities and services of Chattanooga, yet far enough away to enjoy the quiet and serenity of the country, residents of Vista Ridge enjoy the best of both worlds.

About the Complex

Vista Ridge itself is conveniently situated just off of US-27 not far from the town’s commercial center. The complex consists of a cluster of buildings on well-kept grounds, offering six different floor plans of one, two or three bedrooms. All units are equipped with central heat and air, range, refrigerator and washer/dryer hookups for convenience. The clubhouse includes a fully-equipped kitchen perfect for parties and community events, and on the grounds, you’ll also find a spacious picnic/grilling area, a playground for the kids, and park benches for enjoying the great outdoors. Shopping and dining options are conveniently located along US-27, including a Walmart Supercenter just minutes away.

About the Area

Home to about 13,000 people, the city of Soddy-Daisy derives its unusual name from two other communities that officially merged into one town in 1969. Today, it’s a convenient suburb just 20 minutes from the shopping, dining and attractions of Chattanooga, Tennessee, providing its residents the combined advantages of living in a quiet small town with the urban conveniences of a larger city. For nature buffs and outdoor enthusiasts, Soddy-Daisy is also convenient to several marinas and state parks along nearby Chickamauga Lake, while the scenic Appalachians are also a short drive to the east.

Vista Ridge is an income-restricted community that offers a quality, clean living environment in the heart of southeastern Tennessee. If you live in this area and need affordable housing for yourself or your family, we’d love to give you a tour of Vista Ridge. To learn more about this complex and the surrounding area and to take a personal tour of your new home, call Olympia Management today at 256-894-2382.

King’s View: Affordable Housing in Kingsport, TN

Kingsport AccommodationFor individuals and families seeking affordable housing in Kingsport, TN, King’s View is a quiet, comfortable apartment community offering a variety of floor plans, well-maintained grounds, and gorgeous city views. Convenient to shopping, dining, and other amenities, this complex represents the best in Mountain Empire living without breaking the bank.

About the complex

We call it King’s View for a reason: this property rests on a ridge with marvelous views overlooking the city of Kingsport and the mountains beyond. King’s View offers floor plans ranging from one to three bedrooms, each equipped with range, dishwasher, refrigerator with ice maker, washer/dryer connections and cable TV pre-wiring. The manicured, landscaped grounds include a gazebo and grills for picnics and family gatherings, a playground for the kids and a clubhouse for events or socializing, along with a community kitchen and laundry facilities for those who need them. One of the city’s largest shopping/dining areas is a short drive east along Lee Highway (US-11W).

About Kingsport, Tennessee

Located along the Holston River near the Virginia border, the city of Kingsport, TN is home to nearly 60,000 people, making it the largest city in the Tri-City region (encompassing Kingsport, Johnson City, and Bristol). First settled as a stopping place for westbound pioneers along the Wilderness Road, then as a shipping port along the Holston, Kingsport is a place rich in history, including being the site of a notable Civil War battle. Today, Kingsport offers its inhabitants a great combination of convenient amenities, excellent schools, and natural beauty. Residents and visitors alike enjoy local attractions like the Allendale Mansion, Lamplight Theatre, Warriors’ Path State Park and Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium, while country music buffs appreciate nearby Bristol as the “Birthplace of Country Music.”

King’s View is an income restricted property offering affordable, comfortable housing to individuals and families in Kingsport, TN. If you live in this area or are relocating here, we’d love the opportunity to give you a personalized tour of this property. To learn more and schedule an appointment, call Olympia Management, Inc. at 256-894-2382 or visit our website.

How to Qualify for Affordable Senior Housing

In today’s housing market, it can be a huge challenge for seniors to find affordable living situations, especially those who are on a fixed income or who have lessened earning capacities. The good news is that thanks to a number of government programs, affordable senior housing options are available almost anywhere in the country for those who qualify. If you are at least 55 years old and meet certain income requirements, chances are there is a comfortable apartment in your area designed to meet your needs, available at a cost you can actually afford. Let’s take a few minutes to discuss these options and tell you how you can qualify.

South Rossville Senior, Rossville, GA, sign close upWhat Classifies as Senior Housing?

Senior housing consists of any residence or development that is designated and designed to meet the needs of senior citizens. In most cases, the Fair Housing Act (FHA) prohibits discrimination based on age or familial status (i.e., families with children); however, the government exempts senior housing from this rule as long as one of the following 3 criteria are met:

  1. All occupants of the development are age 62 and older; OR
  2. The community holds to a policy of intent to house people aged 55 and older AND at least 80 percent of the units are occupied by someone aged 55 and older; OR
  3. HUD recognizes the community as one that caters to the needs of senior citizens under a federal, state or local government program.

How the Government Helps Make Senior Housing Affordable

There are many different programs at the federal, state and local levels that can assist with making affordable senior housing available for those who need it. In particular, HUD provides several solutions for seniors, including:

  • Subsidized housing options: Apartment communities and other developments who qualify to receive government subsidies to offer reduced rents to seniors
  • Public housing options: Government-administered housing developments for low-income seniors
  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers: These vouchers help seniors pay rent in their own apartment, and follow them to the next place if they move
  • Section 202-Supportive Housing for the Elderly: Another government-backed program to finance and subsidize developments designed to accommodate the elderly

Is This the Same as Assisted Living?

No, it’s not. Some assisted living facilities may qualify as affordable senior housing, senior housing is not automatically assisted living. Many seniors remain quite independent and simply need housing that is affordable and designed around their needs. This is the need senior housing seeks to address.

How Do I Qualify for Affordable Senior Housing?

While certain restrictions may apply according to property or government project, you may qualify for affordable senior housing as early as age 55, provided you meet the minimum income requirements.

HUD essentially categorizes seniors in two low income brackets based not on actual dollars, but on the median income of the local area as well as the rent market value. The goal is for rent not to exceed 30 percent of your monthly household income. The two income brackets are:

  • Low income: Seniors whose income is 80 percent or less of the area median income (AMI); and
  • Very low income: Seniors whose income is 50 percent or less of the AMI.

Of course, the median income can vary widely according to location, so if you are on a fixed income, you may qualify more easily for senior housing in some cities than you would in others.

How Do I Find Senior Assistance Programs in My Area?

The Department of Housing and Urban Development has created a useful interactive tool that can help you identify senior assistance programs in your local area. From there, you can call the local field office to find out what kind of documentation you need to prove your income, as well look for affordable senior housing options in your area.

As part of our ongoing commitment to provide affordable housing options, Olympia Management oversees a number of properties specifically catering to the needs of low-income seniors aged 55 and up. We can also provide more information on how you can qualify to live in one of these properties. To learn more, contact us today.

How Do I Know if I Qualify for Low-Income Housing?

If you’re having trouble finding a rental property you feel you can afford, you may be on the lookout for low-income rental options. But how do you know whether you qualify for low-income housing?

This question doesn’t have a simple answer because “low income” is based on a wide range of factors, including the cost of living in your local area, rent market values and median income ranges. Also, there may be state and local housing programs in your area in addition to federal (HUD) programs, and each of these may have different criteria in determining low income brackets.

What Is Considered Affordable?

Morristown, TN Chloe Lane building front closeBy government guidelines, “affordable housing” is any situation in which your rent and utilities does not exceed 30 percent of your family’s monthly income. If you’re paying more than this amount, you are considered cost burdened and may be eligible for certain programs designed to reduce this burden, depending on the cost of housing in your area and your income limits.

What Is “Low Income?”

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has established several tiers of need, based on the Median Family Income (MFI) and the Fair Market Rents (FMR) of the local area. Here’s a general breakdown of tiers:

  • Households making 80 percent of the local Median Family Income are considered “low income.”
  • Households making 50 percent of the MFI are “very low income.”
  • Households making 30 percent or less are considered “extremely low income.”

Each tier makes you eligible for certain programs. In most cases, families must be at least in the “very low income” category to qualify for Section 8 housing, for example. The HUD Exchange offers a searchable database telling the actual income limits for households in each state, and even each county, so you can get an idea of where you land.

Many states also have additional affordable housing programs for which you may qualify, even if you don’t meet the federal guidelines. For example, in New York City, where housing is extremely expensive, there are local programs available for families making 100 percent or even 130 percent of the MFI.

Learn more about qualifying for low-income housing

The best way to find out whether you qualify for low-income housing in your area is to visit a local field office or organization in your area. Check out the HUD website for more information, or click here to locate state and local agencies. To find out whether you qualify for one of our own affordable rental properties, contact Olympia Management at 256-894-2382.

4 Reasons to Invest in Affordable Housing

Developing and managing affordable housing for low-income families is both a challenging and highly rewarding endeavor. Because many families in today’s housing market cannot afford the high cost of real estate or market value rents, affordable housing gives these families a chance to live comfortably and safely with an improved quality of life. Developers often rely on investors to build and manage these complexes. Here are four reasons why it might make sense for you to invest in affordable housing.

Stoneridge Estates Gazebo, Sparta, TN

Reliable return on investment

Because the demand for affordable housing is so great, developers generally have little trouble filling their properties once they are built. This trend has been constant for many years and should continue for the foreseeable future. This means investors assume the relatively little risk and enjoy reliable ROI.

Consistent cash flow

When families qualify for affordable housing, their rents are subsidized by federal, state and local agencies. This translates to a fairly steady stream of cash flow for investors in these properties. Also, due to the high demand, if a family is still unable to afford their rent, newly vacant properties are easy to fill, keeping the risks low and the income stream constant.

Affordable Housing

Generous tax incentives

The US government offers a whole array of deductions and tax credits for those involved in building affordable housing for low-income families. These tax savings are obviously passed on to investors.

Building healthy communities

Beyond the benefits mentioned above, perhaps the most important reason to invest in affordable housing is the overall benefit to the community itself. By creating housing options for families and individuals otherwise could not afford it, you have the opportunity to change many lives for the better in a tangible manner. These people in turn often end up enriching their communities in unexpected ways.

Olympia Management has many years of proven experience in developing and providing safe, comfortable living options for individuals and families who need extra help. For more information on how to invest in affordable housing, call us today at 256-894-2382.