Section 8 charge what they will pay?

[Jeff S.]

Haven't done a sec 8 for many years and now have an applicant. I just lowered my asking rent. If it is below what sec 8 pays can I ask for the higher amount? After all it is worth more with all the hassles. Would prefer to not rent to but new law requires we take their applications.

[Annette Hibbler]

We have several section 8 tenants and I don't have any issues with them. I don't understand this negative stigma that's placed on them. They are families just like you and me who have lost jobs and fallen on hard times and need a little help to get back on their feet.

Section 8 offers landlord's many protections such as requiring a yearly inspection of the residence. This is to ensure that the residence has been maintained well and to also ensure that the tenant has not ruined the property. Therefore, ensuring that they will take care of your property. The last thing a Section 8 tenant will risk is getting kicked out of the program. They cannot ever apply again. Do you get any such assurances with a non-section 8 tenant?

Section 8 tenants are on notice, they must take care of the property and must pay their portion of the rent. If they do not, you have an advocate with the Section 8 representative who will work on your behalf. The program administrator will make sure the tenant complies with the lease.

Regarding inspections, we have to repaint the porch floor every year because it gets worn out from the cold winters as well as from traffic. They don't like chipped paint. Our tenant tells us when the next inspection is scheduled. Knowing that, we take care of it ahead of the inspection date.