Find Housing.
52,000 central ohioans pay more than half their income to housing costs. That is not sustainable.
Central Ohio does not have enough affordable homes to meet our community’s needs. We know that can feel frustrating, scary, or even maddening. But there are some resources that can help identify what is available.
What is the Ohio Housing Locator?
The Ohio Housing Locator is a free service provided by the Ohio Housing Finance Agency, a state agency. Property owners who receive grants or financial support to help build affordable housing are often required to list their apartments on this website. It allows renters to search for homes that are affordable, physically accessible, age-restricted, or lead-safe.
See the HUD tools.
The U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development helps fund some affordable housing providers. Their website maps where these homes are and what kinds of programs are offered. Just because a location is listed on the HUD map does not mean that it has any availability.
HUD also oversees the Housing Choice Voucher program (aka Section 8), which is administered locally by the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority. This program provides housing assistance for very low-income families, the elderly, and the disabled, allowing them to live in safe, quality affordable housing in the private market. You can learn more about the program on CMHA’s website.
Affected by a home fire or other disaster?
No matter the disaster, American Red Cross is here for you. If you were affected by a home fire or another disaster, call them anytime at 614-253-2740.
RENTER FAQ
Can landlords refuse to rent to me because of how I earn income?
Maybe. Generally, there is no State law in Ohio that prevents landlords from refusing to rent to someone based on how they earn their income. It is not uncommon for landlords to have strict rules about whether or not to rent to people who earn 1099 income, self-employed applicants, renters who receive child support or disability benefits, or renters who plan to use a Housing Choice Voucher.
However, many local governments have passed “Source of Income” laws that prevent this kind of discrimination. Learn more on our Housing Rights page.
What if I can afford rent, but not the security deposit?
Some cities have adopted “Renters’ Choice” laws, which generally allow tenants to pay their security deposit in installments. Learn more on our Housing Rights page.
Even in cities without these laws you are allowed to ask the landlord if they will accept a security deposit payment plan.
You can also find nonprofits and goverments that provide rental assistance on our Rent Help page; sometimes these programs can be used for a security deposit.
What if a criminal record is preventing me from getting housing?
Ohio renters may be eligible for a “Certification of Qualification for Housing” approved under House Bill 50. A CQH is designed to reduce barriers to safe and sustainable housing for individuals impacted by the justice system. The certificate creates an assumption that a person's past convictions alone are not enough to deny them housing-unless there is convincing evidence to prove otherwise. Learn more from the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation & Correction.
What questions should I ask when finding a new home?
Every renter will have different housing needs. You should always feel comfortable asking questions of a prospective landlord. Some common questions may include:
-What day of the month is the rent due?
-Are there any fees and charges in addition to the rent?
-Who pays for utilities, and how much do they usually cost in both the summer and the winter?
-May I have a pet? Is there any fee for doing so?
-What happens if I pay late? Is there a grace period?
-Is renters’ insurance required?
-How long is the lease term? What happens when it ends?
-Can my rent ever go up? How much has the rent increased over the last few years?
-Am I allowed to sublet the apartment? Am I allowed to have roommates?
What should I do when I move in?
Many people recommend documenting the condition of the property so that you do not get charged for damage you did not cause. A photo or video of each room or a letter to the landlord noting all existing damage can help make sure there is no confusion later.