Space to Share

As Jon and Jennifer Rodriguez saw skyrocketing rents price friends out of the Bay Area, the couple wondered how they could help. They found a solution in their East Palo Alto house, deciding to build a mother-in-law unit they could rent to someone needing a home.

"We felt we had space to spare," Jennifer said. "So we said, 'Let's share it.'"

But doing so wasn't that simple. Home renovations can be costly and complicated. Fortunately, Jon and Jennifer received help from Abode staff members, who offered expertise and professional contacts. "When we struggled to find the right electrician, for example, Abode helped us find a good one," Jon said. "They've given us a helping hand."

Abode has partnered with San Mateo County landlords like Jon and Jennifer since January 2016, when it began assisting people who use county Housing Authority vouchers to pay their rent. Abode provides incentives and resources to landlords while helping voucher holders find and pay for affordable housing options. 

Abode, through its contract with San Mateo County, paid the move-in deposit for Jon's and Jennifer's tenant, and negotiated the regular rental payment. The renter pays a fixed amount and the rest is paid with the help of a county voucher. And it's done through direct deposit, making it easy for landlords to receive and track the monthly payments.

Jon and Jennifer say they enjoy the good feeling they get from helping to "house people around here who needed affordable housing," and they're grateful Abode helped them do that.

"They've provided the necessary support in all steps of the process," Jon said. "We'd be happy to work with Abode again."