New Yorkers dream of a few things: a loyal bodega man (with a resident cat manager), catching the subway doors just in time, and affordable housing. Though we can’t speak on the ability of your bodega man to remember your order, or the reliability of the MTA, we can spill a few secrets that we’ve learned from Housing Preservation & Development NYC on how to win an NYC housing lottery.
Under NYC Housing Connect, the affordable housing lottery program is a governmental effort to create inclusive opportunities for NYC residents across all five boroughs to have access to affordable housing. This, in addition to the building of 33,000 new apartments, is crucial to combatting NYC’s housing crisis at a time when housing is getting less and less affordable for young people with NYC’s expensive neighborhoods.
How to apply for an NYC affordable housing lottery
It’s important to note that applications for an affordable housing lottery are accepted via mail or online. We will be further detailing how to apply online.
- Complete your profile on Housing Connect
- Click on “Open Lotteries” & ensure your household size and income meet the requirement
- Submit your application prior to the deadline
5 tips to winning an NYC housing lottery
Though the entire process is completely randomized, there are a few tips and tricks unknown to many that could give you a bit of an edge over other applicants or additional opportunities to get your hands on affordable housing.
1. Have all of your documents ready in advance
If your log number is pulled, you will immediately be asked for your documents:
- ID for you and everyone you will live with
- Tax forms
- Recent pay stubs for proof of income
- Old lease/utility bill
Having them prepared in advance in an accessible place will prevent you from scrambling for them at the last minute.
2. Keep an eye out for re-rentals
Affordable units can sometimes become available again, and in those cases, the competition is much less extreme. That’s because many New Yorkers don’t know they can opt-in for re-rental notifications on their profile.
You can find it on your profile under the “housing choices” section and all you need to do is select “YES” to be notified about re-rentals. If you choose to opt-in, be sure to watch your inbox as that’s where you will be notified of any re-rental opportunities.
3. Ensure your profile includes an accurate & up-to-date gross income
Qualification depends on your gross income (before taxes). Therefore, it’s very important you enter it accurately so as to not interfere with your chances of qualifying for a certain lottery.
4. Don’t risk missing your acceptance notification
Be diligent in checking your emails for any status updates. That being said, some applicants may never hear back, even if they qualify. However, if you do happen to be the selected applicant, you will need to promptly express your continued interest in order for the unit to become yours. Move in dates can be as soon as a week from your acceptance date, so be prepared for a quick turn around.
5. Explore boroughs beyond your first choice
Though your heart may be set on a certain borough, expanding which boroughs you’re willing to consider can improve your chances. According to HPS NYC, “some of the most successful lottery winners apply in boroughs they hadn’t originally considered.”
What are the chances of winning an NYC affordable housing lottery?
The chances of winning an NYC affordable housing lottery are about 1 in 590. So though it’s not easy, it’s definitely not impossible. And hopefully with these tips, you’ll feel more confident in your application and the opportunity to win.