Our blog

Rent News, How-To's, and Advice

Helpful reads to guide you through finding and benefiting from
rental assistance and other housing programs

Airbnb.org Provides Free Housing for Wildfire Victims in Los Angeles

Airbnb.org is stepping up to help those affected by the recent wildfires in Los Angeles by offering them a place to stay for free.  These free stays are made possible by donations from Airbnb.org, ...

Rising Costs of Homeownership vs. Renting

Buying a house usually costs more than renting one. This is because you have to pay for things like insurance, property taxes, and repairs.  People expect to pay about 14% more for owning a house compared to renting on a reg...

A Lifeline for the Vulnerable: Linn County's Rental Assistance Program

While the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have impacted communities across Iowa, the most vulnerable members of society have been hit hardest. For those already struggling to afford basic ...

How to Refinance Your Mortgage for the Right Reasons

Homeowners often reflexively consider refinancing when interest rates drop, hoping for lower payments. However, refinancing solely for a lower rate may not actually save you money in the long run. Here are some guida...

What You Need to Know Before Renting Out Your Home

People rent out their homes for different reasons. Some may do it to get cash to pay debts, while others need extra money to save for future investments, among other motives. No matter your reason for renting out your hou...

Renting with Roommates: Tips and Strategies for Sharing Living Spaces

Living with multiple roommates can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it can also come with its fair share of challenges. It is important to be aware of the potential issues that may arise when ...

Top U.S. Cities Where Rent Is Dropping

After several years of high rent prices, renters in most parts of the United States are finally seeing some relief. Recent data from Realtor.com shows that in five major cities, average rent prices have dropped more than 5% in the past...

Automatic Savings on Utility Bills for Selected U.S. Citizens

California gives many residents and small businesses an automatic discount on their utility bills called the California Climate Credit. It’s funded by the state’s Cap-and-Trade program, where major...

How Changes at HUD Will Affect America's Seniors

As the baby boomer generation heads into retirement, the number of older Americans is increasing. In 2020, about 55.8 million people, or one in six, were aged 65 or over. A report from the Urban Institute sheds light on ho...