Any experience with vouchers from disabled? Please share. Thanks!

[Charli Stevens]

Recently, was contacted by a person who wanted to see an open property. Once there and seeing that they liked the property, they mentioned that they were disabled and had a voucher. I've tried to do some research on line to find out more about the program and requirements for landlords, but it looks like there could be a few different options for programs that said person qualified for. If it helps identify the program, the prospective tenant (PT) did mention that the program would have to inspect the property and would have a couple of follow up inspections on an annual basis. Also, PT did state that they didn't need any special modifications to the unit. Thoughts? Experiences? What have other Biggerpocketeers run into out there? 

Thanks so much!

Charli

[Peter MacKercher]

@Charli Stevens The most common voucher in STL is the Section 8 voucher, though there are some other similar HUD programs that subsidize rent. They may have a Section 8 voucher, or, another that you'll hear, is through the MO Department of Mental Health, which is also HUD funded and similar but is based on different qualifications. With the applicant saying they're disabled they may simply have a Section 8 voucher and a monthly disability check (SSDI).

The inspections are more thorough than the run-of-the-mill city inspections, which are basically simply there to check against code violations and basic habitability (smoke detectors, no holes in the wall, etc). Section 8 inspections will cover extra things like usability and more extensive safety concerns, like ensure that appliances have anti-tipping devices installed (you can basically connect a chain from the back of the appliance to the wall), ensuring that the appliances present in the unit function, that the W/D hooks up accessible and usable, that the yard isn't overgrown with weeds, etc. 

Like @Marcia Maynard said, screen them as you would anyone else. The application process typically takes 1-2 months from start to finish, in our experience. You may hear the applicant clarify they have a "city" or "county voucher, as both entities issue them. The city Housing Authority seems to be impossible to reach, and generally very unhelpful. The County HA has been very responsive, in our experience, and the building inspector we've worked with the most is an investor herself, and also a hoot to chat with. We've had Section 8 tenants at properties for 7+ years, so once the initial hurdles are over, they can be very stable placements.