1. Do I have to change jobs or adjust my work hours to become a host?

No. You can maintain your current job and work schedule while still being a generous and effective host.

2. How much time do I need to spend with my housemate?

The amount of time is flexible and should be mutually agreed upon between you and your housemate, or happen organically. As a host, you are expected to respond to reasonable, thoughtful requests for help, but not to enable dependency. The goal is to support your housemate’s growth toward independence.

3. Do I need to make changes to common areas like the kitchen, living room, or dining room?

It depends on your preferences and attachment to your aesthetics. At a minimum, your housemate should have a designated space in the kitchen for pantry items and refrigerator storage. What’s most important is to reflect on your sense of ownership and generosity, and how those values influence your capacity to host.

4. Do I need to welcome a specific population?

Presently, Uncommon Neighbor is focused on the refugee population who have been resettled in the Atlanta area. 

5. What if I’m experiencing financial strain (e.g., debt or low income), can I still host?

While hosting shouldn’t cost you money, it’s important that you feel financially stable and are managing your finances wisely, ideally with minimal debt. Hosting is not intended as a way to get rich or pay off debt. Uncommon Neighbor recommends that you have a debt-to-income ratio of <43%. (In case it’s helpful, here’s a Debt-to-Income calculator: https://www.calculator.net/debt-ratio-calculator.html.)

6. Do I have to fundraise to be a host?

No. Fundraising is optional. Your church community or personal network may offer support in various ways that don’t involve formal fundraising.

7. Do I need a spare bathroom for my housemate?

Yes. It’s recommended that your housemate have access to a private bedroom and bathroom for comfort and privacy.

8. Is a lease required for my housemate?

Yes. A lease with legally appropriate language is strongly advised to protect both you and your housemate.

9. How do I come up with an appropriate rental fee?

A good place to start is by researching apartment rental prices in your local area to get a sense of the current market. You’ll also want to calculate your average monthly utility costs—things like electricity, water, internet, and gas. Since Uncommon Neighbor is rooted in hospitality and support, we recommend setting a rent amount that is lower than typical apartment rates in your area. It’s also helpful to include utilities in the rent price so there are no surprises for the guest, and budgeting is simpler for everyone.

10. I’m single but have a boyfriend/girlfriend. Can I still host?

Yes. However, consider your lifestyle and comfort level. If you’re not comfortable sharing your space with someone unfamiliar, your housemate may feel the same way. Compatibility and mutual respect are important.

11. Can I host someone under 18?

Uncommon Neighbor currently does not provide guidance for hosting minors or working with the Division of Family & Children Services.

12. If I am single, can I host someone of the opposite gender?

No. Uncommon Neighbor’s model does not support opposite-gender hosting arrangements for single adults; however, if you are an empty-nest couple, you can welcome either a man or a woman, depending on your comfort level.

13. Can I host if I have a family/children?

Uncommon Neighbor is not resourced to handle the questions/issues that might arise if there are children in the host home.

14. What if something happens that creates tension, such as a broken item, failure to pay rent on time, or breaking household rules? 

Tension will arise sooner or later, and you need to be able to address situations with grace, maturity, and clarity. You need to be open to having critical conversations.

15. Can I mentor my housemate toward a personal or career goal, such as finding a job or continuing education?

Yes— in fact, Uncommon Neighbor would consider that a core directive. Many refugees benefit from guidance in setting goals, exploring career options, or continuing their education. However, your role is to support and encourage, not to take over their journey. Offer practical help—like sharing resources, introducing contacts, or helping them practice for an interview—while allowing your housemate to take the lead and make their own decisions.  

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