Move-In Process

Once a family has received a Voucher and Request for Tenancy Approval (RFTA) they may begin their search for a unit. When the family locates a unit they are interested in and the owner is willing to rent to them, they will have the owner complete the RFTA and either the owner or family will return the form to Marin Housing via; drop off, mail, email, or fax.

Marin Housing’s inspector will then conduct an affordability test to ensure that the contract rent and utilities combined (Gross Rent) does not exceed the payment standards. In the case that the gross rent does exceed the payment standard, Marin Housing will run a 40% test to determine if the family’s share of the rent would exceed 40% of their monthly income. When the proposed share exceeds 40% the inspector will negotiate with the owner to lower the contract rent for the unit to pass.

After the affordability test is completed and the unit passes the inspector will contact the owner to schedule an initial inspection. These are scheduled within two business days of receiving the RFTA. Once the unit is inspected and meets the Housing Quality Standards the family is able to sign a lease and move in that day or any day following.