Marketing, Leasing and Certification Specialist

Overview Catholic Housing Services believes everyone deserves the right to a safe, affordable place to call home.  Inspired by this vision, CHS develops, owns and manages affordable housing programs for low-income families and individuals; currently including 2,100 units of housing in 50 different buildings across Western Washington.   We provide supportive services for people who have experienced homelessness, low-income seniors, farm worker families, and those who have special physical and mental needs. Catholic Community Services and Catholic Housing Services work together in partnership to provide permanent supportive housing to individuals and families who have experienced homelessness in King County.  We believe that everyone deserves a safe, affordable place to call home.  We understand that people experiencing homelessness come to us with complex histories, and that it takes a highly collaborative, creative team to help end the cycle of homelessness permanently.    Position Description: The focus of the Marketing, Leasing & Certification Specialist is to market vacant units in buildings with high vacancies, engage with interested parties for viewing units, and turn these interests into successful applications. Ensure site staff process new applications all the way through to completed move ins.; and, complete annual household certifications for designated properties determined by the Director of Property Management.  This position will supplement existing property management and compliance staff during periods of high vacancy in buildings throughout the portfolio.  This position will process new applications that are referral based from internal and external partners, from property waitlists, prospects from marketing, and unit transfers.  They will complete certification paperwork and determine eligibility based on the property screening criteria.  In addition, this position will complete annual household certifications in accordance with the properties’ funding requirements and regulations.  This position requires thorough knowledge of the extensive qualifications and paperwork which varies by program type, population, and funding.  It requires expertise in marketing affordable housing.  Attention to detail, accuracy and deadlines are crucial.  It requires understanding of housing for vulnerable populations.  This position requires travel between properties. Mileage compensation will be provided. This position offers a compensation range of $31.23 – $34.74 per hour (DOE) Full‑time, 40‑hour position include a competitive benefits package: Medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus life insurance and long‑term disability Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options Generous paid time off, including paid sick leave, 15 vacation days, 12 paid holidays, and 1 personal holiday CCS/CHS 403(b) Employee Savings Plan Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Responsibilities MARKETING AND LEASING: Coordinate and conduct the marketing of vacant units and application process with staff teams in the buildings Keep up to date and engage with internet marketing sites and processes for maximizing successful applications and leasing. Ensure advertising has correct information and attractive photos.  Refresh advertising frequently. Coordinate with property management or services as appropriate, to schedule in-person and virtual tours for prospects.  With other property management staff show vacant and rent-ready units available to the applicant that they are eligible for. Coordinate an intake immediately for a new referral or prospect, and keep the services staff informed of application status throughout the process. Initiate all new applications for move in and unit transfers. Work with the intention of handing off leasing responsibilities to site staff as leasing progresses.  Take the initiative in communication with site staff at each building you are engaged with. Complete background screenings, and household eligibility certifications. Notify applicants when they are approved to move in or if their application is denied and the reason per the screening criteria. Manage the property waitlists by adding new applications when open, keeping the waitlist up to date and active, and following the list for placement of vacant units. Train other site staff to provide excellent customer service by providing a welcoming environment, refreshments such as water or coffee, and a comfortable space to meet including ADA needs. Provide effective and clear communication by being knowledgeable about the building’s requirements and services, the paperwork and the process.  Be able to clearly explain this to the applicant.  Applicants may have limited understanding about housing requirements and responsibilities. Must be able to clearly answer any questions from the applicant and be responsive in finding the appropriate answer if you do not have it at the time. Coordinate with the Property Manager to send completed application packets to the Housing Authority for properties with Project Based Vouchers or VASH vouchers. Be responsive in timely follow up to fill units and set expectations with the applicant regarding items needed and the time frame in which it is required.  Take the initiative to move applications through to completion. Once a unit transfer has been approved, initiate the paperwork to complete the transfer with the current resident. Demonstrate the importance of meeting deadlines to occupy units for the purpose of compliance, financial sustainability, and to minimize the impact to applicants from experiencing homelessness. Apply and follow all landlord/tenant laws, and fair housing regulations per federal, state and city regulations.   MOVE IN/LEASE SIGNING: Once an application is approved immediately schedule lease signing with the applicant and service provider if applicable. Be knowledgeable in the most curre