Section 8 Question

Comments(6)

• 
  who_me25th February, 2004

  Look under your local housing authority or your counties. Most have websites, but if not call them and they will get you an information packet sent to you.
  
  It will walk you through the details of what they look for and what you need to do to participate.
  
  Found a website, maybe it will help: http://www.phfa.org/guidelines/sguide/Appendices/y.pdf
  
  Hope that helps
  
  Dave[ Edited by who_me on Date 02/25/2004 ]

• 
  wjrhw25th February, 2004

  Thanks Who, I will start investigating right away.

• 
  wjrhw25th February, 2004

  Anyone else rent through HUD or Section 8? I see positives and negatives, but don't know anyone with experience on the subject.

• 
  Worf25th February, 2004

  I am in the process of renting to section 8 as we speak. They have certain guidelines that the house needs to conform to such as;
  -all windows must have a lock that works
  -no carpet within 3 feet of cooking areas
  -must be a fan in the bathroom vented to the outside
  -size of rooms and their windows are regulated
  -smoke detectors on every level
  
  I live in New York and I am working through the DSS-Dept of Social Services
  
  I get one month's rent in advance and 2 months security.
  The rent is sent directly to me from DSS. I believe that they pay part of the rent and the tenant pays the rest according to what they qualify for.
  
  If you do try to rent to section 8, remember, everything is negotiable.
  The house that I have qualifies for $200 more per month than my mortgage payment. At first they told me that they would be able to pay up to one figure. I told them that wouldn't do. They bumped it up $100. I said OK.
  
  Know your market and take the route that you are most confortable with.
  
  If I can help some more, just let me know. Good Luck!

• 
  mhvhomebyr25th February, 2004

  I also have some tenants who are DSS. One thing to point out is that the tenant is responsible to meet with his/her case worker regularly. if they miss one of these meetings the case worker will hold the rent. No matter of calls will get them to pay until the tenant meets with them. You will just have to keep the thumbscrews tight on your tenant if you don't get the check.
  
  Other than that I have had good experience with it.

• 
  DaveT25th February, 2004

  wjrhw,
  
  I have several Section 8 renters in my properties, and have generally had good success. Use the search function on the Landlord Forum for "Section 8". You will find lots of previously posted topics in the forum that address the advantages and problems of Section 8 landlording that others have experienced.
  
  To get the best information from folks in your area who know exactly what to do, contact the Easton Housing Authority at (610) 258-0806 or visit them at 157 S 4Th Street. Ask for a new landlord information kit.