Because this job title refers to a number of different positions, a housing specialist’s job description can vary. One is as a consultant to a municipality concerned with housing and healthy, sustainable development. Another is as a person who assists people with job or school relocations. In addition, a housing specialist can work in social services, connecting low-income people to housing services such as subsidized housing and affordable housing in their communities.
In the broadest sense, a housing specialist collaborates with city planners and housing agencies to develop development and housing policies. This person can be consulted during the planning stages of developments and works to ensure that all residents of the community have access to safe, affordable housing. A bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as urban planning or social work, may be required. Some housing experts are members of professional groups for people interested in city planning. The job necessitates a familiarity with the community’s needs as well as previous experience shaping residential developments.
A relocation housing specialist can assist people in finding housing in a new city and offer a variety of services. This can include arranging for a moving crew, enrolling children in school, assisting families in locating new service providers such as doctors, lawyers, gardeners, and so on, as well as providing an orientation to the new community so that residents are familiar with their surroundings. The housing specialist can also assist with things like obtaining parking permits and locating gyms and other clubs.
People with housing issues, such as landlord-tenant disputes or the need for new housing, are seen social workers in the housing field. They offer advice and information, as well as referrals to community service organizations that provide services such as legal assistance and furniture gifts to people who need assistance setting up a home. The housing specialist is familiar with the various housing assistance programs and their requirements, and can quickly connect people to appropriate services.
These three jobs all have something to do with housing, but in different ways. A knowledge of all three is having good people skills and familiarity with a community. Degrees may be recommended or required for people working in the public sector, and people with more qualifications will earn more money. Relocation specialists do not require a college diploma to work, but they may find it beneficial to have a network of community connections in order to best serve their clients.