Lakeside's housing services program provides a range of housing counseling, information, and referral services to address the comprehensive needs of residents in the communities we serve. Our housing program operates on a model of continuing education, progressing from renting to buying to owning successfully, so that ownership leads to the creation of personal wealth and long-term economic security.

Lakeside is certified by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide housing counseling. This means that the agency has created and is following a formal counseling plan designed to meet the housing needs of residents in the communities we serve. Group and individual counseling services are available for renters, first-time homebuyers, homeowners, condominium owners and associations. Most services are free or are provided at a nominal charge.

Lakeside provides an array of services and activities designed to help individuals and groups make informed decisions regarding their housing options. Services are available for:

Renters: Lakeside offers free counseling for renters, including help to locate apartments, dealing with tenant/landlord issues, and managing credit or budget issues. Lakeside staff are experienced with the Chicago Landlord Tenant Ordinance and fair housing issues. For information on rental housing programs, contact Bibian Guevara, Rental Housing Advocate.

First time homebuyers: Lakeside offers free group and 1x1 services to help first time homebuyers prepare for ownership. Lakeside staff are certified in home buyer education methods by NeighborWorks America.

Current homeowners: Lakeside offers free counseling for persons who own homes, including owners seeking to avoid mortgage default or foreclosure. For information on counseling programs for current homeowners, contact Susan deBeaubien, Intake Specialist.

Condominium owners and associations: Lakeside offers comprehensive training to condominium buyers and owners, as well as newly formed or existing condominium associations. The training improves participants' capacity for self-management and knowledge of how to address specific problems. For information on programs for condo owners and associations, contact Julio Soriano, Community Housing Specialist.

If you are seeking housing or housing-related services, please consult our calendar to learn of upcoming workshops or contact our office to schedule an individual consultation. You can also complete a simple online inquiry form and someone from Lakeside will contact you.

Please note, Lakeside does not provide cash assistance or manage apartments for rent.