Affordable Housing Resources in Charlotte-Mecklenburg: Where to Start

Finding safe, affordable housing in Charlotte-Mecklenburg can feel overwhelming. While Housing Collaborative focuses on assisting households referred to us by our partner agencies, there are other resources available to make your housing search easier.

Whether you’re a family seeking a safe place to live or a partner interested in working alongside us, here’s how to get started searching for housing  in our community:

If you’re seeking housing:

There are some great resources online:

• Visit www.affordablehousing.com and add your location to the search box, then go from there.
• Go to www.zillow.com and click Rent in the top left corner. You can communicate with property providers through the site, and even choose the filter Accepts Zillow Applications to pay one monthly fee to apply to multiple properties.
• Several reputable property management companies have property search features on their websites. Here are just a few:
  • SL Nusbaum – https://slnusbaum.com/property-search/multifamily/
  • LSA Management – https://lsamgmt.com/communities/
  • Dynasty Property Management – https://www.dynastymgmt.com/charlotte-homes-for-rent 
• Although Housing Choice Voucher waiting lists are often closed, Housing Authorities also manage properties that may have openings. Search online for your local Housing Authority and visit their website for information about properties they own/manage.

Remember: never share personal information or send money sight-unseen. If something seems suspicious, it probably is a scam. You can verify a property’s ownership utilizing sites like https://polaris3g.mecklenburgcountync.gov/. 

If you are experiencing homelessness or are about to lose housing:

If you live outside Mecklenburg County, call 2-1-1 (or 1-888-892-1162).

If you live in Mecklenburg County, Coordinated Entry (CE) is the front door to our community’s homeless response system. Call Coordinated Entry at 704-284-9665.  Leave one voicemail with your name, number, and a brief reason for calling as multiple voicemails can slow things down. A team member will return your call within a few days to ask basic questions about you and your household.

Additional resources:

• Crisis Assistance Ministry (rent & utilities/emergency needs in Mecklenburg County): 704-371-3001
• Landlord-Tenant Mediation: Mecklenburg County Dispute Settlement Program
• Fair Housing concerns: 704-336-5160 (City of Charlotte)
• Legal help: Legal Aid of NC 866-219-5262

For community partners & property providers:

Housing Collaborative is always looking to work alongside property owners, managers, nonprofits, and housing agencies. Connect with us at housingcollab.org to explore partnership opportunities that support placements, reduce vacancy loss, and keep units stable.

Programs and eligibility can change. If you have questions about partnering or need help getting started, visit HousingCollab.org.