How to make your property indestructible, well almost!

[Rick L.]

I'm considering expanding my property portfolio into the section 8 realm. Now, we've all heard the horror stories of tenants trashing the property/units, late payments/no payments, etc. However, before I jump off the deep end, I'm considering ways to make the properties more durable and able to withstand wear and tear.

• For instance, instead of using carpet, refinish & stain the wood floors. Or, install the floating vinyl planks.
• If exterior stairs are needed, construct them so there is no room to loiter or store personal belongings outside.
• Install a/c condenser units on the roof, if possible.
• Verify that all utilities are metered separately.
• Install one-piece shower tub units so there are no grout/corners to clean and/or caulk.
• Install shower/tub drain strainers to decrease clogged plumbing.
• Working with neighboring landlords & residents to improve community, etc.

I remember reading a forum about no clog toilet...or the internals that couls be purchased at a big box store.

Now I know there are many knowledgeable property owners on BP. I would love to hear your creative ideas!

[Chris Da]

you have to be careful anymore making houses bare bones and boring for section 8 tenants. In my experience anymore it seems as though these tenants have become even more entitled over the last few years. They know that landlords like the guarantees of rent, and usually the rents are higher than the open market calls for, so it is leverage for them. I had a few ghetto properties that I tried that with and to my disgust these voucher holder would come in and question me as to why the carpet isn't plush or are there no accent walls or why the stove isn't a flat top. Unbelievable being that they are getting a free ride. They are usually quick to let you know how much their voucher is worth and that being said they feel entitled. The section 8 bible was written by 2 guys in Philly and I know the neighborhoods they were renting. That doesn't work out everywhere. Trust me I tried it both ways. I also think of,it this way... When I was younger and went to beer parties at crappy houses it was nothing to see people putting cigarettes out on the floor or people spilling stuff all over. If you were at a very nice house at a party people tended to be much more respectful of the house. Same holds true for rentals. If you rent people trash, they will make sure it stays that way.