You don't need a lottery application for these affordable housing units in NYC

The NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) has announced a significant policy change that allows re-rental affordable housing units to be publicly listed. From May 1, 2023, until April 30, 2026, these apartments can be rented on a first-come, first-served basis, directly through property management or online platforms, eliminating the need for a Housing Connect lottery application. This change aims to reduce the lengthy vacancy periods of apartments and streamline the process for renters needing affordable housing. HPD will maintain oversight to ensure the new rules are followed.

"This temporary change helps people get matched with the right home at the right time," said Deputy Press Secretary Natasha Kersey, emphasizing the modernization of NYC's housing process.

Thanks to a big policy shift by HPD, re-rental affordable housing units can now be found publicly, allowing New Yorkers to bypass the Housing Connect lottery.

Read at Time Out New York