pricing section 8 rental

[David Soest]

I talked to the local housing authority and they told me they pay $1,690.00 for a four bedroom. I listed my property on gosection8.com and saw other four bedrooms for $1,100.00.

Why would someone rent for so much less than their willing to pay? Or am I missing something??

Thank you.

[Linda Weygant]

There are several factors that go into Section 8 pricing.

First of all, the price you have there is probably the *maximum* they will pay.  In general, your rent charged to Section 8 still has to be market rent for your neighborhood, finish level, amenities, etc.  The price will also vary for a house vs a condo or townhouse and will also vary depending on the utilities covered by the landlord vs what the tenant has to pay for.

Lastly, there is often a cap on the individual voucher holder.  A person with 3 kids will have a smaller voucher limit in general than a person with 4 kids.  There is also a small portion of the calculation that is based on the tenant's income level and source.

In the end, market is still market and you can't get more just because you're going through Section 8.