WHO WE ARE

TEXAS HOUSING FIRST is an innovative approach to affordable housing for Texas renters. With nearly a century of experience, we understand the challenges facing today’s renter population.

 

TEXAS HOUSING FIRST supports renters with evictions, poor credit, and low income who may be at risk of losing their housing. We help mitigate damage and prevent eviction, enabling individuals to either remain in their current home or secure a new one.

 

Texas is experiencing an eviction crisis, exacerbated by COVID-19 disruptions in the job and housing markets:

 

• An estimated 300,000 evictions occur annually

• Between 900,000 and 1 million evictions have been filed over the past four years

• Approximately 500,000–600,000 eviction judgments have been issued in the last 48 months

 

Troubling Trends in Austin:

• In 2025, eviction filings are up 39% compared to 2024

• 9,796 evictions were filed through August 2025

 

Our vision is to empower the large population of renters who struggle to qualify for or maintain stable housing due to these challenges.

 

Austin’s recent building boom has brought relief to the rental market. Vacancy rates exceed 10%, and rents have dropped by over 20%. Yet, nearly 49% of residents remain cost-burdened, living paycheck to paycheck. Any disruption—job loss, reduced hours, divorce, or health issues—can quickly lead to eviction. As the building boom slows and the housing market rebounds, securing an apartment after a recent eviction will become even more difficult.

 

TEXAS HOUSING FIRSTaims to assist as many renters as possible. Through funding and partnerships with apartment management and owners, we help individuals stay in their homes or transition into stable housing. Our target renters have income but need support rebuilding credit and starting fresh. With coaching, assistance, and a year of consistent payment history, we empower them to restructure their lives—and hopefully save for a rainy day.