Ready to join our community?
We post all of our rental units with detailed information about pricing, how to apply, income requirements and more on RentFaster.
Please read each advertisement closely! And kindly note that we do not take applications for housing over the phone.
Find answers to your FAQs below!
We provide homes for a diverse group of residents from all walks of life. By providing people with affordable, appropriate, and safe housing free of judgement, pity or prejudice we set the foundation for building individual resilience and strength to live a fulfilling life.
Our housing portfolio consists of six properties in one of Calgary’s most vibrant communities of Hillhurst and Sunnyside. We offer bachelor, 1, 2, and 3 bedroom units.
We also operate commercial spaces at full market price which help to support financial sustainability.
We believe that thriving communities are defined by diversity, compassion, respect, dignity, and inclusion.
Our commitment to inclusive communities and the mixed model approach, whereby some residents pay market rent and some pay rent-geared-to-income, has many benefits such as:
An enlivened community, built on emotional, physical, mental and spiritual respect
Providing well-maintained properties that complement and enhance the value of neighbouring properties, thereby increasing acceptance of affordable housing within communities
Increased efficiencies based on partnerships
Fostering community development as all community members, regardless of ability or income, contribute to the overall well-being of the community
Helping residents avoid stigma that may be attached to social housing
Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions before you apply? We get it! Take a flip through some of our most frequently asked questions. It’s super important to us that you are a fit for our community, and that we are a fit for you!
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The mixed-income model of housing allows for individuals of varied backgrounds to find housing within an NHA building regardless of income level. Resident income levels remain anonymous, as no unit is designated either Market or Rent-Geared-to-Income (RGI).
We seek to maintain a balance of both Market and RGI units in our buildings, and all units, regardless of rental amount, are provided with equal care and attention from our maintenance and operations team.
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Market housing is based off of competitive rents in the area for a similar unit. NHA seeks to remain competitive and yet affordable for those looking to live in the Kensington area. All market renters must be paying no more than 30% of their monthly income towards rent (a widely-recognized determinant of affordability according to CMHC).
Rent-geared-to-income (RGI) is housing for those on a lower or subsidized income. This means that a market rent would require this particular individual/family to pay more than 40% of their income towards rent, thus placing them in a potential precarious situation. RGI units allow for renters to pay 30-40% of their income towards rent (and utilities) and NHA subsidizes the remaining amount.
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NHA boasts an operationally sustainable model, requiring no government funding to ensure long-term and sustainable housing for our residents. As the owners and operators of our buildings, we rely almost entirely on our residential and commercial rents to sustain the organization. NHA is grateful for the support of one time capital or community-based project grants as it further enhances our capacity to maintain quality housing.
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All of our units, regardless of market or rent-geared-to-income, are posted on online platforms such as Rentfaster. Please look for our postings for all available units.
Partners seeking rent-geared-to-income for their clients are encouraged to apply via the online portal through Rentfaster.
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All NHA buildings are located in the Hillhurst and Sunnyside areas of Calgary, surrounding the Kensington Business District. Being surrounded by an amenity rich, urban area allows for easy access to shopping, groceries, the c-train and other transit options.
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No. NHA is very strict on signing only fixed term leases. The length of the lease agreement may vary depending on individual circumstances, however, the majority of leases range from 6 month to 12 month leases.
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NHA does accept one small dog or cat under 20lbs upon office approval and a one-time $100 fee. One bunny or bird may be allowed upon PRIOR approval.
Pets are required to be house-trained, quiet and taken off-site to relieve themselves. They must remain on a leash at all times within the common space of the buildings.
Reptiles and rodents are not accepted. Residents found violating these rules may not have their lease renewed.