3 Tips for Renting Affordable Homes in Houston

Nov 03, 2024|3 minute read|Written by Sally Finley

From its cost of living index score of 96.9, Houston appears like a budget-friendly place to live. However, despite Texas’s lack of income tax and zoning regulations, rent can be cost-prohibitive. Finding affordable modern homes in Houston can be more difficult in practice than on paper. Nearly one third of Greater Houston households struggle to afford necessities, and half of all renters are cost burdened.

Despite recent financial challenges, affordable homes in Houston are available to rent! With decades of experience in leasing budget-friendly single family housing, ARK Homes has the expertise to help. Continue reading for practical advice and strategies on finding affordable rental housing options in the Houston area.

Housing in Houston

Experts have long been lauding the city of Houston for its relative affordability. As inflation rises nationwide, however, the effects are unmistakable, even in sprawling Greater Houston. Only about 300,000 households in the region are under the Federal Poverty Line. However, Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) data shows a more complete picture.

This data, from 2023, reports that 31% of Greater Houston households were unable to afford the necessities of life. These families struggle to afford basics despite employment. Although many families aren’t federally recognizable as low-income, they are struggling to make ends meet.

Further research from Harvard University supports the severity of this crisis. The Joint Center for Housing Studies’ 2024 report reveals that half of all renters are cost burdened.

These frightening statistics about the state of housing underscore the importance of budget-friendly housing for renters. Individuals and families deserve affordable homes, both in Houston and elsewhere.

3 Tips for Affordable Houston Home Rent

Budgeting

A popular budgeting rule declares that 30% of your budget should go toward rent each month. Most lenders will consider this guideline when looking at your income and approving your rental applications. To get the keys to your new home, you’ll likely need to pay the first month’s rent up front, as well as a security deposit. Keep all these numbers in mind as you start shopping for houses.

While all-inclusive amenities are certainly appealing, you’ll need to be thoughtful to stick to your budget. Today’s housing market makes budgeting difficult, but not impossible. We recommend new homes without HOA fees for modern living without the high bills.

Engaging with Experts

When looking to rent in Houston, we recommend reaching out to local experts you can trust. Since 2008, our leaders have worked in the single-family residential space. This long-term industry knowledge gives us the know how to help countless families find the homes of their dreams.

Speaking to ARK will result in a comfortable, well-priced space for your family. We only provide top-quality properties and have insider knowledge on Houston markets.

Researching

Our second tip will be helpful as you complete this third step, too: next is research time. You will need to figure out what amenities, features, and locations are crucial in your home search. What are your must-haves and dealbreakers? What communities are you interested in?

Speaking to local Houston experts will help you narrow down your selections and find the optimal house.

Affordable Homes for Rent in Houston, TX

With a focus on superior service and high-quality rental homes, we’ll help you find a new place to live. Our newly-built, modern, rental homes will go beyond your wildest dreams. Choosing ARK will provide you with fine houses for rent in Houston, TX, perfect for your family’s unique needs.

Backed by decades of experience in managing homes, we bring an educated lens to leasing. Our budget-friendly, single-family homes will meet your unique needs. When you rent a newly built home with ARK, you can rest assured that it will be top-quality and backed by market wisdom.

At ARK Homes for Rent, we create communities that cater to our residents’ holistic wellness. Surrounded by natural beauty, our brand-new homes enable renters to live active, free, and healthy lives. Our proprietary ARK Homes App allows access to property maintenance, on-demand wellness content, and more.

The days of leasing standard, out-of-date homes are over. Live better holistically—the ARK way. If your main priority is affordable rent, our homes in Houston, TX might be right for you. 

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