How to Find Affordable Housing in the South

When looking for housing, there are endless things to consider, price arguably being the most important thing to look at first. Once you’ve figured out your budget, there’s still a lot to do in making sure your dollar is going the furthest it can in the best situation possible. If you aren’t sure how to make that happen, you’ve come to the right place. Here are some tips and things to look for when in need of affordable housing. 

Consider The Commute

Many Americans have to travel many miles from their homes each day for work. It’s an unfortunate part of many American lives, but it may be what’s best for your family. Large cities, for example, can be majorly expensive next to an apartment comparable in a nearby smaller town or suburb. 

To ensure you and your family are in the best neighborhood and housing possible, it might make sense to have a longer commute via driving or public transport, depending on where you live. For example, if you find suitable work in the Dallas Fort Worth area, you might have better luck looking at Arlington apartments, where your dollar can go further than downtown Dallas for example.  

Public Housing

Eligibility will depend on many factors, but looking into this option won’t hurt, even if you find you are not eligible. Determining factors include gross income, citizen status, and local requirements will vary depending on exactly where you are. Make sure to do your homework on the exact requirements at the city/county level.  

Because limits on public housing vary between cities, counties, and states, you very well could qualify in one place, not another. Depending on other factors in your life, this might play a part in where you see yourself living. Even if subsidized housing is not an option for you, rental assistance might be something you’d qualify for and could be an alternative. 

Find A Roommate

This might be more or less possible depending on external factors, such as the size of your family and if you know anyone in the area you are looking to move in with them. Finding a trusted friend or family member is always best but if you want to live with someone you don’t yet know, always use your best judgment when vetting potential living partners.

This might not be ideal for many, but as long as you can get along, it’s simple math. Having others to split the bills with can make the neighborhood you want to be in more realistic. On the plus side, this can be a great way to get to know people if you are new to an area. A roommate could become a great person to show you around and introduce you to others with similar interests.

If you decide it’s best to live with someone you don’t yet know, as a way to cut costs, do try and meet with them before signing anything to get a better idea of who they are as a person and if you will get along well enough to live together peacefully.