Wooden stamp with the word "APPROVED"

For some Newberg residents, renting continues to be a good solution to achieving affordable housing. However, due to a variety of unfortunate past and/or present circumstances, conflict between landlords and renters has increased. In hopes of solving this problem, the Planning staff has been working to bring “Ready to Rent” classes to Newberg.

The “Ready to Rent” program has been successfully implemented in the past by many communities. The program has potential renters take a series of six classes with activities that are designed to inspire individuals to become successful renters. Some topics that are covered include: tenant responsibilities, developing a realistic budget, how to communicate with landlords, and practicing good housekeeping.  If the participant passes the required tests, they are awarded a certificate that verifies their successful completion of the program. Prospective landlords can look at the certificate and know that the potential renter understands the characteristics and requirements of being a good renter. To date, there have been twenty graduates from the program, twelve currently enrolled and the next session began on October 25th.

The best feature about the program is that it comes with a guarantee. The HAYC applied and was awarded a grant for Rent Guarantee Funds from the Oregon Housing and Community Services which is available to “enrolled” landlords. Any landlord that provides housing for a certified renter can be reimbursed for any damages to the housing caused by the renter up to $1,500. So far no landlord has ever needed to collect on this guarantee, thus demonstrating the effectiveness of the program.  

For further information or questions contact the Housing Authority of Yamhill County at 503-883-4300 or Joyce Finkbone, Housing Specialist, at 503-883-4317 or jfinckbone@hayc.org.