Overview: RentSelect is an innovative housing search platform operated by Bethesda Cares, Inc. and dedicated to increasing housing opportunities for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. We aim to enhance the housing search process by offering a seamless, secure, and effective service for landlords, property managers, and stakeholders in the homeless services system. As part of the ongoing development of this platform, RentSelect seeks a rental agent who will provide guidance and feedback on the platform’s functionality, usability, and effectiveness in connecting landlords with tenants in need of permanent housing solutions in Montgomery County, MD.

Program Summary: RentSelect leverages Padmission, a purpose-built web-based housing search platform designed to streamline landlord engagement, housing search efforts, and collaboration across stakeholders. By providing a fast, efficient, and secure system for listing available properties, RentSelect helps property owners and managers reduce vacancies and turnover costs, while also empowering individuals experiencing homelessness to find safe, accessible housing in Montgomery County, MD.

Contract Objectives:

1. Provide Feedback on Landlord Recruitment and Program Strategies: The rental agent will offer expert feedback on the user interface, experience, and overall landlord recruitment goals of the program, , focusing on the ease of listing properties, the clarity of property information, and the communication channels with housing support staff.
2. Assist with Strategies to Increase Property Listings: As a contracted agent, the rental agent will assist in strategies to increase property listings, ensuring the information is comprehensive, and meets the needs of landlords, property managers, and those working to scale up the program in Montgomery County, MD.
3. Offer Market Insights: Provide insights into the local rental market, including trends in property availability, rent pricing, and common concerns of landlords and property managers. This will help refine RentSelect’s outreach and engagement strategies.
4. Support User Training and Adoption: Work with RentSelect’s team to ensure that landlords and property managers are trained and comfortable using the platform to its fullest potential.
5. Monitor and Report on Effectiveness: In collaboration with RentSelect team, periodically assess how the platform is functioning in terms of listing properties and connecting them with individuals in need of housing. Analyze and refine reports provided by RentSelect and recommendations for improvements.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Consulting & Advisory:
- Evaluate platform design and user experience based on real-world needs of landlords and property managers, including duties accompanying Bethesda Cares staff during landlord visits in Montgomery County, MD.
- Provide expert advice on what works and what doesn’t in terms of property listings and communication between stakeholders.
- Offer suggestions for improving the platform’s effectiveness in increasing landlord participation and tenant placement success.
1. Platform Engagement:
- Providing feedback on the ease of listing properties, updating availability, and responding to inquiries.
- Ensure that property listings are clear, consistent, and tailored to attract the right tenants, particularly those experiencing homelessness.
1. Stakeholder Education & Outreach:
- Assist with outreach to landlords and property managers to promote the platform, ensuring they understand the benefits of listing their properties and how to navigate the system.
- Help design educational materials or training sessions for landlords, property managers, and case managers to optimize their use of RentSelect.
1. Market Research & Reporting:
- Provide market research and analysis of rental trends in the areas where RentSelect operates, including supply-demand dynamics and common challenges for landlords and tenants in Montgomery County, MD
- Regularly report on user feedback and platform performance, suggesting improvements or refinements to enhance user experience and landlord engagement.

Desired Skills and Qualifications:

- Previous experience as a rental agent, property manager, or in a similar real estate role. Preference for licensed rental agent in the state of Maryland.
- Knowledge of the rental market, particularly in affordable housing and housing for vulnerable populations.
- Strong understanding of the challenges faced by landlords and tenants in the housing system.
- Familiarity with web-based platforms and ability to provide constructive feedback.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to train or mentor stakeholders on using the platform.
- A commitment to improving housing access for vulnerable populations, including those experiencing homelessness.

Contract Terms:

- Duration: The contract will last for 6 months, with an option to extend based on performance and ongoing needs of the project. The contracted entity will file a separate 1099 for tax reporting purposes.
- Compensation: The rental agent will be compensated at a rate of $50 per hour (10-12 hours weekly) based on the scope of the work outlined above. Payment will be made monthly.
- Work Location: This is a hybrid position with remote work flexibility, though the rental agent may be asked to attend occasional meetings or conferences (virtually or in person) as necessary.
- Reporting: The rental agent will report directly to the Executive Director of Bethesda Cares and will provide progress updates on a bi-weekly basis.

Performance Metrics and Expectations:

- Regular feedback sessions will be held to assess the agent’s input and the effectiveness of their recommendations.
- Success will be measured by the improved usability of the platform, increased landlord participation, and higher property placement success rates for individuals experiencing homelessness.
- Timely delivery of market insights and reports will be critical to ensuring the program meets its objectives.