What advice should a housing counselor give to a client renting month to month to better secure their housing?

A housing counselor would advise a client renting month to month to seek a new written lease agreement as an effective way to secure their housing. This step provides several benefits: it offers stability by creating a longer-term commitment between the landlord and tenant, which can minimize the risk of sudden eviction or lease termination. A written lease lays out clear terms of the rental arrangement, including the duration, rent amount, rules, and conditions under which either party can terminate the lease. Having these terms documented reduces ambiguity and protects the rights of both the tenant and the landlord, allowing the tenant to feel more secure in their housing situation.

In contrast, seeking additional roommates, while potentially increasing affordability, does not directly enhance the security of the current housing arrangement and could complicate tenant rights and responsibilities. Requesting lower rent might also be beneficial but does not inherently provide the same level of security as a formal written lease agreement. Additionally, moving to a new location may involve added challenges and instability, particularly as it would require finding a new housing situation rather than solidifying the current one. Thus, pursuing a new written lease agreement directly addresses the need for security in the client's housing situation.