Section 8 Housing Questions

[Danial Qureshi]

Hi Everyone,

I'm looking at a few properties here in Atlanta, GA which have Section 8 tenants would any of you be willing to give me some advice as to what to expect with Section 8 tenants as I've heard some horror stories and I've heard some really great outcomes in other states. Actually it may serve me better if any of you know someone whom I could speak to about it, because I would like to educate myself on the subject matter.

1) How do you screen Section 8 Housing tenants? Or does the government do that for you?

2) I'm assuming the payments from the government are prompt, but what about the tenant portion? Would you continue letting the tenant live there if they don't pay their portion?

3) What is the overall process of becoming a Section 8 landlord? Is it a hassle to become a Section 8 landlord? What paperwork is required and does the government provide you tenants or do you still have to market your property for people to occupy your property?

4) What are the pros and cons of being a Section 8 Landlord? 

5) Is the process of evicting a Section 8 tenant the same as a regular tenant?

If you have any experiences with Section 8 tenants please do share I want to genuinely learn more. If there are pertinent questions that I seem to have forgotten please do let me know and I'll add them to the main post and credit the person asking the question so that those who come after can learn.