🏠 Got an Extra Room in Thurston County?

Home Share is connecting locals with affordable housing, one spare room at a time

If you live in Thurston County and have an unused guest room, in-law suite, or even just a finished basement — there’s a local program quietly turning that extra space into something powerful: affordable housing.

It’s called Home Share, and it’s run by Senior Services for South Sound. The idea is simple but impactful: match people who have extra space with those who need it — creating a win-win solution in a tight housing market.

💡 Here’s How It Works

• 🛏️ Homeowners open their homes to vetted individuals in need of housing

• 🤝 The program facilitates a match based on compatibility, preferences, and needs

• 💬 Ongoing support and check-ins are provided by the nonprofit

• 💵 Rent is negotiated between parties — often far below market rate

On average, matched tenants pay around $600 per month, compared to the typical $1,500+ rent in Thurston County. And unlike most rental arrangements, these come with built-in community and flexibility.

👵 It’s Not Just for Seniors
While the program is run by Senior Services for South Sound, it's open to all age groups.

Whether you're:

• A single adult priced out of local housing

• A senior looking for companionship and extra income

• A homeowner wanting to offset costs

• Or someone just trying to help others while making use of extra space — Home Share could be a perfect fit

🏘️ Why It Matters in Today’s Market
With rising rents, limited inventory, and increasing displacement in the South Sound, creative housing solutions like this are more important than ever.

Home Share:

• Helps prevent homelessness

• Makes better use of existing housing stock

• Provides meaningful connection between people who might not otherwise cross paths

• Gives homeowners extra income while doing good

📍 How to Get Involved
The process starts with a simple application through Senior Services for South Sound. From there, the team helps coordinate background checks, compatibility assessments, and safe introductions.

Whether you're looking for housing or have a room to share, this is one local program that truly lives up to its mission.

🧭 Final Thoughts
As housing challenges grow across Thurston County, Home Share is a quiet solution with a big impact. It's not just about rent — it's about building trust, community, and dignity into the way we live.

If you've got the space, this might be the opportunity you've been waiting for.

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🔗 For more information on the Home Share program and other South Sound housing stories, visit southsoundreport.com and follow @aaronthomaspnw. We publish a free weekly newsletter every Friday covering everything from Tacoma to Olympia — helping you stay in the know, without having to try to stay in the know.