REAP Financial Mentor Rozanne Jensen says the lack of housing and knowledge around tenants' rights meant there was a need for education in not only those rights but also in how to be a good tenant.
She says it also helps those still looking for properties with how to present themselves.
"First impressions count."
MSD say while there are no plans by the ministry to have more seminars in Dannevirke at this stage, the feedback has been pleasing.
Katie Brosnahan, Regional Commissioner for Social Development says the programme was designed to help clients in emergency or insecure housing to develop the skills and confidence to gain and sustain private rental housing.
"We are aware of the challenges clients in (such) housing may face when navigating the private rental market and we want to support them to independence.
"Empowering whanau with knowledge and understanding has helped to prepare our people for when opportunities present themselves."
Subjects covered in the seminar are tenants' rights and responsibilities, applying for a tenancy and preparing for an interview with a landlord, what landlords look for in a tenant, home budgeting, managing costs and debt, keeping a home warm and dry and getting support from different places, including MSD's housing, financial and employment services.
Participants receive a certificate at the end of the workshop which will help them in their applications.
