WHY DO PEOPLE
WANT TO HOMESHARE?
People enter HomeSharing arrangements for all sorts of reasons.
Some people want help with housing expenses. Others seek the companionship
and security of having another person in the home. HomeSharing
matches often involve an exchange of services in place of some
or all of the rent. These services prove very valuable to many
HomeSharers in helping them maintain their home and their independence.
HomeSharing also assists people during times of transition such
as divorce, loss of a loved one, unemployment or pursuit of education.
ARE THERE LIMITATIONS?
Think of it as being roommates of sorts. Home Providers may have
to compromise some solitude or personal space. Home seekers may
have to give up a pet or put furniture and other belongings into
storage if there is limited space at the Provider’s home.
Remember that HomeSharing arrangements are often temporary due
to the transitional nature of the HomeSeeker’s situation
and need not be viewed as a permanent situation.
HOW ARE PEOPLE
SCREENED?
The HomeSharing staff carefully reviews applications and conducts
in-person interviews with each potential HomeSharer. LCBH requires
references from applicants which are checked by the HomeSharing
Coordinator.
HOW ARE PEOPLE
MATCHED?
Program staff looks for compatibility in HomeSharers’ needs
and expectations. When a potential match is identified, a meeting
is arranged between the Home Seeker and Home Provider. The match
is only a recommendation by the HomeSharing staff; the choice
to enter into a HomeSharing arrangement is made entirely by the
HomeSharers. However, HomeSharing staff plays an active role in
helping negotiate a mutually satisfying agreement.
DOES FILLING
OUT AN APPLICATION COMMIT ME?
No. Filling out an application will give you a good idea of what
is considered when making HomeSharing matches. It may also help
you decide if HomeSharing is right for you. But it does not obligate
you to a HomeSharing arrangement.
HOW LONG DOES
THE MATCH PROCESS TAKE?
The time spent waiting for a match varies depending on the number
of applicants in the pool and your set of matching criteria. It
can take a few months to identify an appropriate match. If you
are in need of immediate housing, you will want to look for another
housing arrangement until a HomeSharing match can be recommended.
IS LCBH INVOLVED
ONCE THE MATCH IS COMPLETED?
Yes. Once you enter a HomeSharing Agreement, LCBH HomeSharing
staff will remain involved to help with the transition. Follow-up
services are available as well.
