Certified Occupancy Specialist (COS)

Are you ready to take the next step in your property management career? RHM Real Estate Group is looking for a dedicated and detail-oriented Certified Occupancy Specialist in Cleveland, OH to join our team! At RHM, we are committed to providing quality housing while fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment. As a key player in our operations, you’ll assist in maximizing occupancy, maintaining compliance with HUD and LIHTC regulations, and ensuring our properties are well-managed and welcoming for residents. The ideal candidate will have experience in Section 8 and LIHTC Tenant Income Certification processes, as well as knowledge of EIV compliance and regulatory reporting. If you have a passion for making a difference in the communities we serve, we want to hear from you!

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist the property manager in ensuring the property is rented to its fullest capacity while representing the company professionally at all times.
• Confirm completion of all leases and corresponding paperwork, accurately inputting data into the Yardi System in a timely manner.
• Maintain proper organization of current resident files and assist the property manager in answering phones and entering work orders into Yardi.
• Review tenant applications for eligibility, maintain and manage waiting lists, and showcase available units.
• Adhere to procedures for processing eligible applicants within program guidelines, such as HUD regulations.
• Process all Section 8 (50059) and LIHTC Tenant Income Certification (TIC).
• Process EIV reports, address any findings, maintain master binder, and adhere to security standards.
• Complete lease agreements with new residents, outlining occupancy terms and conditions and handling relevant paperwork.
• Conduct annual tenant re-certifications and fulfill weekly, monthly, and compliance report requirements.
• Ensure completeness and organization of new move-in files, attending training sessions as required by RHM Real Estate Group.
• Participate in regular in-house training and informational meetings to stay informed of industry updates.
• Minimize property vacancy loss by efficiently processing multiple applicants upon notice of intent to vacate/evict by current residents.
• Cooperate with compliance staff to provide necessary information for audits, inspections, and annual reports to lenders and regulatory agencies.
• Achieve satisfactory ratings in all compliance reviews.
• Utilize effective techniques and company guidelines to orient and train new personnel consistently.
• Maintain staff efficiency through ongoing training, instruction, counseling, and leadership.
• Work closely with the property manager to develop and implement weekly/daily office staff schedules and assignments.
• Consistently administer action plans for performance issues, documenting and communicating situations to supervisors and Human Resources Director.
• Provide support to staff, fostering teamwork and setting an example for a harmonious work environment.
• Ensure community appearance is maintained and repairs are completed promptly through regular inspections and tours.
• Conduct daily property walks to demonstrate management presence and monitor overall property appearance.
• Ensure market-ready apartments meet quality and quantity standards, communicating any service needs to maintenance.
• Record and communicate all service requests appropriately to maintenance staff.
• Learn and ensure compliance with company, local, state, and federal safety regulations.
• Address unsafe conditions promptly and direct staff to prioritize safety.
• Emphasize a "safety first" principle among staff members.
• Other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Real Estate Management, or related field preferred.
• Certified Occupancy Specialist (COS) designation via NCHM and/or Certified Professional of Occupancy (CPO) certification via NAHMA strongly preferred.
• Previous experience in property management, affordable housing management, or related field required.
• Proficiency in property management software, such as Yardi, and MS Office Suite.
• Strong understanding of HUD regulations and other affordable housing program guidelines.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to interact professionally with residents, staff, and external stakeholders.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills to maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills and the ability to handle difficult situations with diplomacy and tact.
• Familiarity with Section 8 and LIHTC Tenant Income Certification processes.
• Knowledge of EIV compliance and reporting standards preferred.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Flexibility to work occasional evenings or weekends as needed.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive information with discretion.
• Any additional certifications or training related to property management or affordable housing management are a plus.
• Must embody RHM’s core values: Teamwork, Will to Win, Loyal and Be a Good Person.

BENEFITS

• Medical, dental, vision, and other ancillary plans
• 100% employer-paid life insurance policy and long-term disability coverage
• 401k participation after 1 year, with employer matching
• Paid time off: holidays, and PTO to support work-life balance
• Pay is $50,000 - $55,000

Schedule: Full-time, Monday - Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work
• US work authorization (Required)

Work Location: On-site, Cleveland, OH