Landlords Share Their Perspective on Working with Alpha House in the Community Housing Program

By Paul Tokode

 The Community Housing program at Alpha House supports clients to live in their own homes in various communities in Calgary and sign their own leases. Alpha House will subsidize client rents and deposits when needed – ensuring consistent, timely rental payments to their landlord. Alpha House also commits to conducting maintenance to ensure the property’s condition remains as it was upon move-in, provides ongoing communication to resolve any issues quickly and thoroughly, as well administer supportive services including intensive case management to ensure long-term, successful tenancies. The Community Housing program is a long-standing program to help our clients live independently. Landlords are also supported by a transition team who are available to help with any concerns, liaising between landlords to keep them informed on case managers who work with clients to manage any issues that may arise.

 In support of our ‘Give Hope Through Housing Campaign’, we recently sat down with several  of our current landlords participating in our Community Housing program to hear their thoughts and experiences.

 

How would you describe your experience?

Landlord of 5 years: We had an excellent experience with Alpha House. Their teams are very passionate, goal driven and dedicated to their assigned tasks. They are very reliable and easy to communicate with.”

Moazzam, Landlord of 4 years: “Working with Alpha House and their team has absolutely been wonderful. Their team members are professional and diligent.” – Moazzam, Landlord of four years

 Laurence, Landlord of 7 years: “My experience has been overwhelmingly positive. The staff is dedicated and passionate, ensuring both tenants and landlords have a positive experience. They set a high standard for supportive housing organizations through prompt communication and proactive problem-solving.”

 

How has Alpha House supported you as a landlord throughout a tenant’s residency?

 Zandalee, Landlord of 1 year: “Alpha House has been supportive of us as landlords by helping communicate to the tenants for any necessary communications such as repairs or building maintenance. It is also amazing as a landlord to know that Alpha House is responsible for finding a well-suited tenant for the unit, building and landlords, so this takes some of the weight off of landlords, especially since they continue to pay rent in between tenants.”

 Moazzam, Landlord of 4 years: “Alpha House has provided outstanding support and commitment. Their commitment to paying on time, maintaining cleanliness in the rental spaces, and ensuring the well-being of all clients whole caring for other tenants exemplifies professionalism and dedication.”

Laurence, Landlord of 7 years: “Alpha House has been incredibly supportive throughout my tenants’ residencies. They have provided ongoing communication, regular check-ins, and assistance with any issues that may arise.”

 

What do you find the most rewarding about working with Alpha House and its clients as a landlord?

Wesam, Landlord of 12 years: “The most rewarding thing about working with Alpha House is the good communication & the quick response of the team in solving the problems which may happen.”

Zandalee, Landlord of 1 year: “It really has been a unique experience knowing you are playing a small part in helping better someone’s life.For us in particular, we saw the joy it can bring to someone who has faced racial prejudice from other landlords by simply saying yes and providing a warm space for them to live. We’ve received more gratitude than we deserve simply for participating in the program.”

Landlord of 5 years: “I love to see that a person’s life can start to change through offering them a place they can call their home. Giving them a second chance to start a new life and help them dream dreams again.”

 

What would you say to other landlords who may consider renting to Alpha House clients?

Moazzam, Landlord of 4 years: “Alpha House is an organization that provides safe and caring environments for individuals. As landlords providing such environments not only benefits tenants but also contributes to a positive community atmosphere.”

Landlord of 5 years: “In this chaotic world we are living in right now, let us be kind to those who need our hand to start a new life. We shouldn’t be judgemental, instead we should be willing to offer ourselves to help ease up another person’s burden. Let’s spread love.”

Laurence, Landlord of 7 years: “To other landlords considering renting to Alpha House clients, I would say don’t hesitate. Working with Alpha House not only provides an opportunity to contribute to the community but also offers a reliable support system and resources to ensure a positive renting experience.”

 

The affordable housing crisis in Calgary impacts everyone, including our clients. With inventory so low and the cost of living on the rise, we need to come together as a community to find solutions so that everyone has a home. We are very grateful for our landlord partnerships that enable us to help our clients find housing where they can feel safe, supported and welcomed in their community.

We are currently looking for 30 suites to help us reach our goal of housing 150 clients this year. We welcome all landlords to learn more about Alpha House’s landlord partnership program please visit Alpha House’s Give Hope Through Housing Campaign and download the landlord partnership package: Landlord-Partnerships.pdf (alphahousecalgary.com). You can also email [email protected] to get started.