
To safeguard property owners the from problems like squatting or vandalism, the property managers make some portion of the property livable and permitted, vet the “guardians” and manage the process.
Is it ideal? No. Is it a long-term solution? No. Have there been bad experiences? Probably.
These programs typically are not targeted to serve the traditional unhoused population. Depending on the program and the administrator, guardians may be graduate students, young professionals, or creatives who need more space than they can afford. In some cases, they may be expected to volunteer in return for below-market housing cost, and to have a “move-on” plan when their arrangement ends.
Here is an site addressing the benefits of guardianship to the guardians themselves and here is another that addresses the benefits to the property owners.
Have you heard of these programs in the United States? If you have, drop me a note, I’d love to know more.