Section 8 Tenants?

[Account Closed]

My question is for those of you that rent to section 8 tenants:

1) Are they reliable tenants?
2) Do you have to deal with more problems with lower income than with your higher end rentals?

I currently own a couple of rentals that are in good areas and I don't have any problems renting them or dealing with bad tenants, but I have been looking at lower income properties that have great cash flow. I just find it hard walking into these dumps and I am not sure if I am ready to deal with the lower income crowd. Maybe I am worrying for nothing?

Any experienced feedback is appreciated.

Chris

[Tony D'Anzica.]

Hi Chris,

I manage many properties with Section 8 tenants and I've had a very good experience with it. Be ready for yearly HUD inspections and be ready to correct any violations right away or Section 8 will withhold rent. As for the tenant, I've found they value their Section 8 benefits and will generally behave in order to continue receiving those benefits. Lease violations can put their benefits at risk. If you're interested in obtaining Section 8 benefits just mention in any of your ads "Section 8 OK" or contact your local housing agency and have them place you on a list of landlords accepting Section 8 and then you will be contacted by tenants. It's not a bad program, and it forces to keep your property in good shape.