Request for Expression of Interest (RFEI) - Santa Monica Master Leasing

The city of Santa Monica is seeking property owners interested in leasing residential units to the city or a city-funded nonprofit organization to expand housing options for people who are experiencing or at-risk of homelessness. Should the parties elect to enter into a formal agreement, the city or nonprofit becomes the “master tenant” and is responsible for the monthly rent, maintenance, security, and supportive services. All tenants would maintain the same rights as other leaseholders.

Benefits for property owners: The city is responsible for the leasing process, and any necessary security under the lease agreement. The city provides supportive services to tenants as needed to sustain and protect the owner’s asset. The owner receives monthly rent from the city for all rooms under the lease agreement and is protected by the city’s guarantee of rental payment.

Benefits for the city: The program creates additional, city-controlled housing opportunities for individuals experiencing or at-risk of homelessness. The city identifies eligible tenants and is responsible for facilitating timely move-in. The city funds the provision of wrap-around services and case management to help tenants remain successfully and stably housed.

OVERVIEW OF REQUIREMENTS

Interested owners may offer entire buildings or individual units for consideration. Each property will be individually assessed. If the city deems the unit suitable for habitation, the city may provide the owner a master lease for an initial term of up to five years, subject to annual renewals. Below are some of the factors that will be considered when assessing whether available units meet the city’s needs:

• Only vacant units will be considered
• The city is seeking properties both within Santa Monica and across Los Angeles County
• The city is seeking the most competitive offers and will not pay above fair market rent
• All units must meet Housing Quality Standards as defined by the Santa Monica Housing Authority
• All units must have a Certificate of Occupancy or Temporary Certificate of Occupancy
• No properties with active Code Enforcement or Housing Quality Standards violations will be considered

The city will consider the following types of buildings:

• Entire multifamily buildings
• Motels or hotels
• New construction
• Fully rehabbed individual units
• Single units or cluster of units
• Single room occupancy (SRO) units (must have private bathroom)
• Studios to four-bedroom units
• Underfunded, existing shelter or interim housing programs

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FORM

Deadline to apply for initial consideration is August 31, 2026.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis thereafter. Interested property owners may submit the RFEI Form via the webform application here. City staff will review and consider applications following the deadline for initial consideration. Submission is not a guarantee that the city will pursue any agreement to utilize the units.

For questions or support on applying, please email hpidivision@santamonica.gov.