This guide answers common questions about affordable housing lotteries. It is designed to help applicants understand the application process, eligibility requirements, and what to expect after submitting an application. 

What is an affordable housing lottery? 

The lottery is a fair and random system designed to give all households an equal opportunity to rent or purchase affordable housing. Rather than being based on a first-come, first-served basis, applicants are placed into a lottery pool, ensuring that everyone has an equal chance of being selected. 

Who is eligible to apply? 

Eligibility is determined by income, household size, and in some cases additional factors such as age (for senior housing), disability-related needs, or residency preferences. Each lottery has its own specific eligibility requirements. 

How do I know if I qualify? 

Each listing outlines the applicable income limits, household size requirements, and any special preferences.  

How do I apply? 

We accept both online applications through the listing website and paper applications. To be included in the lottery drawing, all applications must be submitted during the open application period. 

Can I apply to more than one lottery? 

Yes, you may apply to as many lotteries as you qualify for. Each application you submit is specific to an individual listing. 

What does my application number mean?

Once your application is received and recorded, you will be assigned an application number. This number will be used to reference your application in all future correspondence and will also be used during the lottery drawing. Please note that the application number is for identification purposes only and does not reflect the order in which your application was received or your placement in the lottery. 

How does the lottery drawing work? 

After the application deadline, the lottery will be conducted virtually on a scheduled date. During this process, all eligible applicants are entered into a random number generator, which assigns each application a unique lottery number. Applicants are not required to attend the lottery drawing. Lottery results will be sent to each applicant by email or U.S. mail within 3-5 business days of the drawing. Results will also be posted on the listing website by application number. 

 What does my lottery number mean? 

This number represents the position assigned to your application at the time of the lottery. It determines your randomized placement on the lottery list. For example, if your number is 87, your application is ranked 87th on the list, with 86 applicants ahead of you. 

What happens after the lottery takes place? 

After the lottery, the housing team will review applications in order of lottery number and any applicable preferences and will begin screening applicants to schedule interviews. This process typically starts 2-3 weeks after the lottery.  

What happens if I am selected for an interview? 

If you are contacted to provide all required documents and meet the eligibility criteria, you will be invited for an interview to verify your information. After the interview, the housing team will begin processing your application. During this time, we are required to obtain and verify third-party information regarding income, assets and student status to determine eligibility for the affordable housing program. Please note that this process can take several weeks.  Once your application is approved, you will be offered a unit. 

What documents will I need to provide if I am selected for an interview? 

For household members over the age of18, you will need to provide: 

· Photo ID  

· Birth certificate  

· Social Security card 

· Up-to-date proof of income (such as pay stubs, tax returns, W-2s, or benefit letters)  

· Six months of bank statements.  

For household members under 18 we will need their birth certificate and Social Security card. Having these documents ready will help expediate the processing of your application. 

What happens if I’m not selected for an interview at this time? 

If you are not selected during the initial rent-up period, your application will remain on the waiting list for consideration for future available apartments. You are also encouraged to continue applying to other lotteries. 

Is there a fee to apply for housing? 

No, there is no cost to apply.  Applications for affordable housing lotteries are completely free. 

What should I do if my income changes after I submit my application? 

Your eligibility is determined based on your income at the time of review. It is important to provide up-to-date income information and to notify our team of any changes to ensure your continued eligibility. 

How long does the application and move-in process take? 

The process from application deadline to move-in can take several months. This timeline includes multiple steps, such applicant screening, background checks, income and asset verification, and preparing the building for occupancy. 

What options do I have if my application for housing is rejected? 

If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal within 10 business days of receiving the rejection letter. Once we receive your appeal and supporting documentation our team will review it and respond as soon as possible.

If I am approved to move in, what funds will I need to provide at the time of move-in? 

At the time of move-in, you will need to provide funds for the first month’s rent and security deposit, which is equal to one month’s rent. The funds must be submitted as two separate money orders or cashier’s checks.