Applicant FAQs
Are all adults required to work?
Yes, all adults over the age of 18 are required to be employed full time. The exceptions are dependent full time students, disabled individuals, or retired individuals*.
*Retired individuals have to have a ten year history of working/living on the island.
The CHR Board is providing an opportunity for our residents and supports the needs of our business community with the option to obtain a second job on Sanibel or at a Sanibel based business located on Captiva. We have modified the CHR rental agreement to not incur an increase in rent from the income resulting from the second job. This allows our residents to grow their financial stability and support economic recovery for the businesses on the Islands.
Please note: In order to qualify for housing CHR residents will need to maintain a full-time position on Sanibel Island or at a Sanibel Island based business located on Captiva. Unless otherwise stated in the residents lease.
How is eligibility determined?
To be eligible for the CHR program, you must work full-time (35 or more hours a week) on Sanibel or be a retired or disabled resident of Sanibel. Once you have met one of the above criteria, points are assigned based on income level, length of time working on Sanibel and length of residency on Sanibel. Vacancies are filled following the points assigned to each applicant.
Is there a waiting list?
What if I have poor credit?
Your actual credit score is taken into consideration but we also review your history of paying obligations and for previous bankruptcy. There will also be a background check performed.
How is the amount of rent I pay determined?
The amount calculated for rent does not include utilities. Residents pay a set amount each month for trash removal and sewer. This amount varies by location.
Is there a fee for applying?
*Application Fee is currently waived during the state of emergency.*
Normally, there is a $75 processing fee for each application submitted.
How long does it take to process an application?
Processing does not start until all required documents are submitted. Once processing begins, four to six weeks is expected for processing depending on how promptly we receive third party verification from your landlord, bank and employer.
Is smoking permitted in CHR units?
No, smoking is not permitted inside any building or substantially enclosed spaces, including porches, owned or used by CHR.