NeighborWorks Umpqua Launches Home Share Program For Douglas And Coos Counties

ROSEBURG, Ore. - NeighborWorks Umpqua has launched a new Home Share Program aimed at expanding housing options in Douglas and Coos counties, connecting homeowners with extra space to people looking for affordable longer-term housing.

The program is being offered in partnership with Nesterly, a platform that helps match homeowners who have spare rooms with individuals seeking stays longer than one month. NeighborWorks Umpqua says the effort comes as housing costs continue to rise and rental options remain limited across Southern Oregon.

Through the program, homeowners may earn supplemental income while offering a room to students, workers or others looking for a place to stay. NeighborWorks Umpqua is the exclusive Nesterly partner serving Douglas and Coos counties and hopes to help facilitate at least 50 homesharing matches during the program’s first year.

“Homesharing is about more than housing,” said Emily Warren Wylie, Director of Homeownership and Financial Access at NeighborWorks Umpqua. “It creates mutually beneficial connections that can reduce social isolation, help homeowners remain in their homes longer, and strengthen our communities.”

The process is designed to be straightforward for both homeowners and housing seekers. Participants can create a free profile, communicate with potential matches through in-app messaging and video chat, and then move forward when they feel ready. Nesterly handles background checks, homesharing agreements and payment processing, while also offering ongoing support from licensed social workers.

NeighborWorks Umpqua will also provide local support for participants who want help getting started. Optional HUD-certified housing counseling and financial coaching are available for those who want to strengthen their financial stability, explore housing options or work toward longer-term housing goals.

The organization said homesharing can be especially helpful for older homeowners who want to remain in their homes longer, while also creating more affordable options for people who need housing in the region.

Those interested in learning more can visit nwumpqua.org/home-share-with-nesterly, sign up directly through Nesterly.com, or contact NeighborWorks Umpqua at 541-673-4909.