Certified Occupancy Specialists (COS) are trained professionals who work for the government. They help people who are looking for affordable houses, and also those who already are living in one. A certified Occupancy specialist has many jobs, including determining whether the applicants are eligible for the program. They also help short-listed applicants throughout the process.
Occupancy specialists work for housing authorities to assist people with HUD properties, so they can receive the benefits provided to them by the U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). So, if you are intended to have a stable job and income while helping people, then this is the profession you are looking for. As a certified occupancy specialist, you will be able to impact the lives of those searching for affordable properties.
Unfortunately, not all occupancy specialists are considered qualified according to HUD standards. HUD certifies candidates who go through a certain process and are trained under HUD rules and regulations.
How to become a HUD Certified Occupancy Specialist?
To become a HUD-certified Occupancy Specialist you will need to follow a few points which will help you:
1. Take a certification exam
To become a HUD-certified Occupancy Specialist, you need to complete a certification training course. The training typically covers guidelines on eligibility, verifications, allowances, incomes, FHA, HUD recertification process, and other claims. It also includes proper guidelines and regulations of HUD.
The duration of the course is 3-4 days, and you are required to give an exam within a week of completing the course. This is an Occupancy Specialist certification test. The results will initially show up in your email in a matter of a week, followed by your certification if you have passed the test.
2. Gain Experience
To start your career as an occupancy specialist, you will require previous experience in the same field. This includes experience resolving occupancy-related problems and low-income housing.
3. Consider higher education and degrees
Think of enrolling yourself in relevant courses to obtain degrees. Although having only experience and not a degree might be enough, some employers prefer candidates who have pursued higher education and hold a degree.
What skills are required to become an occupancy specialist?
While anyone who meets the qualification requirements and passes the certification test can become an occupancy specialist, here are some skills that could be your asset in this profession:
Communication skills
An occupancy specialist’s job is to interact with housing candidates and explain complex regulations. Their great skill at communication helps them convey accurate information in simpler language for applicants to understand.
Technology
As the world is digitizing, the requirement for technological skills increases. Having great skills in technology can help them run their tasks efficiently through online platforms.
Well aware of the laws
As their primary job is connected to state and federal laws, occupancy specialists are required to have a full awareness of the current in-rule laws. For a smooth and hassle-free experience, they are intended to provide to all applicants, occupancy specialists have to stay updated.
Conclusion
With the Covid-19 pandemic and the lockdowns, you can take your certification test online. The process has been made easier and risk-free but the time limit remains the same. The test must be given within a week of class completion, and your results will be sent through email.
