July 2, 2026 3:50 a.m. 

NeighborWorks Umpqua has launched a new Home Share Program in partnership with Nesterly – a platform that connects homeowners with spare rooms to individuals seeking affordable stays of longer than one month.

A NWU release said that as housing costs continue to rise and rental options remain limited across southern Oregon, Nesterly offers a practical way to create new housing opportunities without the cost or delay of new construction. Homesharing allows homeowners to earn supplemental income while providing affordable housing for students, workers, and others looking for a place to stay.

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

NeighborWorks Umpqua aims to facilitate at least 50 homesharing matches during the program’s first year. As the exclusive Nesterly partner serving Douglas and Coos counties, NWU offers over 30 years of local housing expertise and experienced staff to support participants utilizing Nesterly’s secure online platform.

The release said that Nesterly.com makes homesharing simple and safe. Participants create a free profile to connect with potential matches and utilize in-app messaging and video chat before meeting in person. When participants are ready to start homesharing, Nesterly handles the background checks, homesharing agreements, payment processing and provides ongoing support from licensed social workers, enabling participants to navigate the progress with confidence. Participants are encouraged to get started locally with help from NeighborWorks Umpqua or sign up at www.Nesterly.com on their own.

To learn more about homesharing, contact NeighborWorks Umpqua at 673-4909.