SNAP — Spokane Neighborhood Action Program

Yes, except for several of our SRO (single room occupancy) properties. Almost all properties in SNAP’s rental portfolio qualify for Section 8 assistance. To be sure the unit/property you’re considering is eligible, contact SNAP Property Management at 456-7106.

How long does it take to complete the rental application process and move in?

In most cases, SNAP Property Management will process your application within a few days and, if approved, you can be moving in as soon as your lease paperwork is complete. For properties subsidized by the Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC), third-party verification is required under Federal regulations. Applications for LIHTC properties are lengthy and often take several weeks before SNAP receives verification of your eligibility. When moving, it’s always a good idea to plan as far ahead as possible and to check with SNAP Property Management for any special application considerations. Click here to go to our Rental Application Form.

What does “affordable housing” really mean?

According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the generally accepted definition of affordability is for a household to pay no more than 30 percent of its annual income on housing. Families who pay more than 30 percent of their income for housing are considered cost burdened and may have difficulty affording necessities such as food, clothing, transportation and medical care. For additional information on income eligibility call 456-7106 ext. 120.
For additional HUD information on affordable housing, go to: http://www.hud.gov/offices/cpd/affordablehousing/index.cfm

How is the rental amount for SNAP units calculated?

Rental amount calculations for SNAP units vary depending on the financing programs that apply to that property. Riverwalk Point I is a Low Income Housing Tax Credit property, for example, and rental rates are calculated using rules provided by both HUD and the IRS. Some properties have different financing structures in effect and SNAP is required to set rents within these guidelines. As a non-profit housing provider, rent amounts are established so that mortgages can be paid, properties can be maintained, and so that new affordable housing can be purchased to better serve our community.

I’m interested in one of your units but it’s not available right now. Could you notify me when it becomes available?

Yes. But first you will need to complete an application, have it processed and, when approved, be placed on a waiting list for the unit in which you’re interested. As soon as SNAP is notified of an upcoming vacancy, the applicants on the waiting list will be notified in the order in which they applied.

May I keep a pet?

Pets are usually not allowed in SNAP units. However, should you qualify under “Reasonable Accommodation” guidelines, where a pet provides a service that you need for a physical, emotional, or mental condition, you may be allowed one pet.

Where are your rentals located?

SNAP has rental units located in a variety of locations throughout Spokane. To see pictures and addresses of currently available units, click here.

Must I sign a full year’s lease?

Households using Section 8 housing vouchers must sign a full year’s lease to be in compliance with HUD guidelines. All other SNAP leases are on a month-to-month basis. If you live in the rental six months or longer, you’ll be asked to update your income information but you won’t have to renew the lease. If you move from one SNAP unit to another, you will be asked to sign a lease for the new unit.

I’ve heard that SNAP has rentals and shelter units. What’s the difference?

Some of SNAP’s rental properties are reserved, as shelters, for persons suffering homelessness or experiencing life transitions. Processing of applications for these units is handled through the Homeless Program at SNAP’s East Office. SNAP Property Management manages and maintains these units, in addition to regular rental properties.