Sr. HUD Occupancy Specialist; Affordable Housing

The Willets Point project is a transformative mixed‑use development in Corona, Queens. This multi‑phase initiative will bring vibrant residential, retail, and public spaces to one of New York City’s most dynamic boroughs, with a strong focus on affordable housing, community engagement, and environmental sustainability.

The Willets Point project is a transformative mixed‑use development in Corona, Queens. This multi‑phase initiative will bring vibrant residential, retail, and public spaces to one of New York City’s most dynamic boroughs, with a strong focus on affordable housing, community engagement, and environmental sustainability. At Related, we are committed to developing communities that not only elevate the urban landscape but also enhance the lives of the people who live and work in them.

Project Details:
Willets Point | Related  The Sr. Compliance Specialist (Contract) will be a key member of the Willets Point New Development team, supporting the affordable housing lease‑up and ensuring compliance with applicable federal, state, and local housing requirements. This position will work closely with applicants, Compliance Managers, property management teams, and government agencies to determine resident eligibility, maintain accurate documentation, and achieve lease‑up and occupancy goals.

REGULATORY AND PROGRAM COMPLIANCE

• Ensure compliance with applicable affordable housing requirements, tenant selection plans, Fair Housing laws, and established program procedures.
• Maintain current knowledge of affordable housing regulations, subsidy requirements, and program guidelines.
• Manage waiting lists in accordance with applicable tenant selection plans and Fair Housing requirements.
• Maintain and update applicant referrals through HRA’s Coordinated Assessment and Placement System (CAPS), when applicable.
• Run Enterprise Income Verification (EIV) reports, background checks, and other required screenings, when applicable.
• Comply with all confidentiality requirements, exercising discretion and integrity when handling applicant and resident information.

APPLICANT ELIGIBILITY AND CERTIFICATION

• Serve as a primary point of contact for applicants throughout the eligibility and lease‑up process.
• Prequalify and interview applicants to determine eligibility under program procedures and affordable housing requirements.
• Request and track third‑party income, asset, and employment verifications.
• Review applicant documentation for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with applicable program guidelines.
• Prepare income certification packages and submit completed files to the Compliance department and applicable city agencies for review and approval.
• Address file deficiencies and obtain additional documentation as needed to support timely approvals.

LEASE‑UP AND OCCUPANCY MANAGEMENT

• Analyze occupancy and vacancy rates across the assigned portfolio to determine the appropriate number of interview and appointment notices.
• Perform all file qualification functions associated with an affordable housing lease‑up.
• Support lease‑up activities, including Housing Connect 2.0 tracking, eligibility reviews, apartment showings, lease package preparation, and lease signings.
• Finalize initial leasing and subsidy documentation and submit completed paperwork to the appropriate property management team.
• Coordinate with property management and building teams to ensure apartments are ready for scheduled move‑ins.
• Prepare for and lead weekly vacancy meetings with designated building and portfolio staff.
• Partner with Compliance Managers, Compliance Administrators, and other internal stakeholders to meet lease‑up, occupancy, and conversion goals.

SYSTEMS, DOCUMENTATION, AND REPORTING

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