When it comes to finding stable housing in New Jersey, many tenants and landlords have heard of the SOTA program—but unfortunately, what’s often passed around are myths, not facts.
At GoodBuy Homes NJ Realty, we work with tenants actively seeking safe, long-term housing through the SOTA program, and we also support landlords who want reliable tenants and guaranteed rent. If you’ve ever been unsure about how the program works or had doubts about tenant qualifications, this blog is for you.
Myth #1: SOTA Tenants Don’t Have Stable Jobs
This is one of the biggest misconceptions. Many SOTA participants do have stable employment, often in healthcare, education, customer service, and other essential sectors. The support they receive from the program is meant to help them get back on their feet—not to replace their personal responsibility. These are individuals and families committed to long-term housing and financial stability.
Myth #2: SOTA Tenants Can't Handle Rent on Their Own
In truth, tenants in the SOTA program receive a lump sum to cover one year of rent upfront, which is often more than what traditional tenants can offer. After that first year, many continue on with private income, work, or additional assistance. The idea that these tenants are financially unstable is outdated and often untrue.
Myth #3: You Need a 650+ Credit Score to Qualify for Housing
Landlords often assume that every tenant must have perfect credit, but that simply isn’t the case. Credit scores don’t always reflect a tenant’s current reality. Many people have had past financial hardships, but that doesn’t mean they’re untrustworthy or incapable of paying rent. SOTA tenants often come with case managers, upfront rent, and a support system behind them. That’s more than most market-rate tenants have.
Myth #4: SOTA Tenants Damage Property More Than Market Tenants
This fear is common but not supported by data. Property damage can happen with any tenant, regardless of whether they are in a housing assistance program. Many SOTA tenants are families or individuals who deeply value their housing stability and take excellent care of their space. Plus, you still retain all standard landlord rights, including security deposits and tenant screening.
Myth #5: The Process Takes Too Long or Is Too Complicated
Landlords often believe that working with a program like SOTA adds unnecessary red tape. In reality, once documents are submitted, the process moves fairly quickly—especially with an experienced real estate team guiding it. Plus, receiving a full year of rent upfront significantly offsets any delay.
Myth #6: You Don’t Have Control Over Who You Rent To
Participating in the SOTA program doesn’t mean giving up your screening process. Landlords can still review applications, meet tenants, and set reasonable requirements. The difference is you're expanding your applicant pool—not lowering your standards.
Why Landlords Should Reconsider SOTA Tenants
Landlords benefit from:
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Guaranteed rent for the first 12 months
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Support from agencies that help the tenant stay on track
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A chance to house responsible people in need of opportunity
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Filling vacancies faster than relying on traditional applicants
Why Tenants Should Feel Empowered
If you’re a tenant in the SOTA program, you deserve dignity and housing options like anyone else. Don’t be discouraged by landlords who don’t understand how the program works. The key is working with the right team that will advocate for you and connect you to landlords who are open and informed.
Let’s Change the Narrative—Together
At GoodBuy Homes NJ Realty, we believe in second chances, fair housing, and doing good business. Whether you’re a landlord with vacancies or a tenant looking for housing with SOTA support, we’re here to help you move forward.
👉 Click here to learn more and get started:
https://www.gbhnj.com/find-housing-with-the-sota-program/
Let’s work together to break the myths and build stronger communities—one lease at a time.
