Landlords: Support Your Neighbors by Partnering with AHFC

June 11, 2026 at 2:19am in Community, Renting
IStock 1092430454

Landlords play a critical role in providing stability and safety for Alaskans.

Alaska Housing Finance Corporation partners with landlords to help families find and maintain safe housing through housing vouchers. Whether you own one available unit or several, partnering with AHFC directly supports Alaska families, providing them with a place to call home.

What is a Housing Voucher?

A housing voucher is a subsidy paid directly to landlords. AHFC voucher holders pay the remainder of the agreed-upon rent to the landlord. It offers individuals a chance to live in safe, comfortable dwellings and offers landlords additional peace of mind, knowing that their tenants can afford monthly rent.

AHFC voucher programs support:

  • Families
  • Veterans
  • Youth aging out of foster care
  • Domestic violence survivors
  • Seniors and Alaskans with disabilities

These individuals have access to support through case managers, employment networks and financial education to help them achieve self-sufficiency.

“I’ve never met somebody who has never needed help in their life. Sometimes, the tenants who utilize vouchers are retired from a job that didn’t provide a pension, or they were a housewife and widowed. Vouchers help them to continue to be independent and have a home of their own while reducing what they pay in rent.”

– Grant, Ketchikan Landlord

Read about Grant’s experience accepting AHFC vouchers

How to Participate

Accepting vouchers is easier than many people realize.

  1.  List your unit publicly and include the phrase “Vouchers welcome” or something similar in your listing. You can post listings on AHFC’s website in the Housing Locator. There’s high demand for units that accept vouchers, so finding a renter is often very quick.
  2. Connect with a renter who already has a voucher in hand.
  3.  Reach an agreement with the tenant on rent and utilities.
  4. Complete your leasing packet and submit with a copy of your lease to AHFC. You’ll be added as a landlord in AHFC’s system and an inspection will be scheduled.
  5. AHFC will inspect your unit to ensure it meets federal NSPIRE standards.
  6. After passing an inspection, the tenant will be able to move in.

Busting Common Myths

  • Myth: “Inspections are too strict.”
    • Truth: AHFC follows federal NSPIRE inspection standards, which prioritize safety and functionality. Most repairs are simple and reduce risk of personal injuries.
  • Myth: “Voucher tenants cause more wear and tear.”
    •  Truth: Voucher tenants are just as diverse as market renters. AHFC provides support and resources to help tenants maintain good standing.
  • Myth: “It’s impossible to evict a voucher-holder who violates the lease.”
    • Truth: Tenants who use housing vouchers are bound by the same terms as any other tenant and are subject to eviction under the same laws.

“There can be misconceptions about renters who use vouchers, but in our eyes it’s a sign that a tenant is being responsible during a time when cost of living has gone up. The tenant realizes that they might not be able to provide housing for their family so they proactively seek assistance in order to fully pay their rent, which we appreciate.”

– Morgan Musgrove, Property Manager, Century 21

Read about Morgan and Mallory's experience partnering with AHFC.

How AHFC Supports Landlords

AHFC’s Landlord Help Desk is available to support should you have any issues or questions.

Contact the Landlord Help Desk.

Voucher Program Background

Tenants who are approved for voucher assistance through AHFC search for housing in the private rental market and go through the landlord’s standard application, screening and approval process just like any other renter. Then, AHFC, the renter and the landlord enter into a contractual relationship covered under Alaska’s Landlord-Tenant Act.

Tenants are initially responsible for paying approximately 28.5% of their gross income to the landlord for rent. The remaining balance is paid by AHFC directly to the landlord or property management firm.

“There is always a significant portion of the rent that comes in one check. There is less worry about somebody who is a few days late – that happens with everybody. There isn’t that worry. If someone does start slipping behind, treat them like you normally would and [AHFC staff] will talk to them.”

– John, Ketchikan Landlord

Understanding NSPIRE Inspections in Alaska

All AHFC-assisted units are inspected using HUD’s NSPIRE (National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate). These inspections ensure homes are safe, functional and healthy to occupy. Inspections focus on the unit, inside and common areas and the exterior and grounds.

A few common pitfalls:

  • Heating systems not maintaining required temperatures
  • Missing or faulty smoke/CO detectors
  • Electrical outlets near sinks without GFCI protection
  • Peeling paint or deteriorating surfaces in older buildings
  • Snow or ice blocking exits and walkways

Pro tip: Use AHFC’s free Landlord Toolkit for checklists, inspection guidance and repair tips before your next NSPIRE visit.

“Vouchers Welcome” = Welcome Home

Accepting vouchers helps reduce the housing waitlist for survivors of domestic violence, youth, evacuees, veterans, Older Alaskans and others rebuilding their lives. When more landlords accept vouchers, more Alaskans can be safely housed.

Questions? Call 1-800-478-2432 or email landlord@ahfc.us.