Affordable Housing

Louisiana citizens searching for affordable housing in the state and landlords wanting to list available properties are coming together online at www.LAHousingSearch.org, a free, state-sponsored housing Web site, according to State Treasurer John Kennedy.

“This is a great tool for getting displaced citizens, especially those who are still waiting on funds to rebuild, to get back home and into the housing they need now,” Kennedy said. “Providing affordable housing to Louisiana residents is one of the most important steps in the state’s continued recovery.”

This Web site allows property owners to list available units, which can then be searched by individuals interested in renting an apartment or home. The service, which is sponsored by various state agency partners such as the Louisiana Housing Finance Agency and Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals, provides prospective tenants with specific, up-to-date information such as rental costs, information for seniors, special needs housing and proximity to public transportation.

The Web site gives Louisiana landlords 24-hour access to manage and updated property listings. Properties valued up to 150 percent of HUD Fair Market Rental can be listed on the site, which covers about 85 percent of the statewide rental market. Property listings allow owners to highlight amenities and special features and include photos of available properties.

“LAHousingSearch.org truly is a one-stop shop for both property owners and their prospective tenants,” Kennedy said. “In addition to the property listing service, landlords can access legal and other housing information. Citizens looking for an apartment or home can also learn about disaster recovery resources and utility bill assistance.”

To date, LAHousingSearch.org has an inventory of more than 8,200 units with more than 1,225 properties available for move-in. Nearly 800 landlords use the system, and more than 800 housing searches are conducted daily. Since the beginning of 2007, the number of landlords using the system has tripled; the number of available units has more than doubled; and the number of searches has increased 4.5 times. For more information about listing or listing a property, visit www.LAHousingSearch.org or call toll-free 1-877-428-8844.