All Forum Posts by: James Peters

Pro-

- They pay on the first of the month 

- I dont go to rent court 

- I generally rent for slightly higher than market in my low income housing areas

Cons

- Sometimes there is entitlement

- Typically a section 8 tenant can be more dependent on maintenance issues 

It's like a box of chocolates :-)  I have met some really fantastic people over the years who are just trying to get by with the tools they have. Many are uneducated because they have been in the system for so long, many are trying to get off the system and are transitioning off assistance, some have mental challenges, some are just plain entitled and rude. 
 

I am out of the loop on current networking events. I think the easiest way to get started is by joining a Facebook group or local REIA. I do not currently network much.

Networking is key. Network with non- real estate people and real estate people alike. I have gotten most recent deals from investors retiring, agent referring me and friend of friends that refer me. The market may slow up a little and offer more opportunity from MLS in the near future. Oh and perseverance.

Hi Shameeka,

Networking will be key. Get out to a investor lunch or join a group and start attending events and meeting people and see what they are doing. Getting started is hard and everyone comes to the table with different tools and mindsets. 

have you tried SDAT Property Search? https://sdat.dat.maryland.gov/...

Hi Joy, for me it depends on what area I am renting in. If I did credit checks in Baltimore's lower income areas I would struggle to find the right tenant. I will normally have the person show me ID, proof of income, and  fill out a simple application that I use to reference. I then use Maryland Case Search to look the person up. I look for inconsistency in their application and address's, I look for tenant holding over cases and money judgments. This will usually eliminate most applicants. After that I can go into the previous landlord call or home visit. If someone is a little risky I increase the security deposit, if someone is a voucher I sometimes waive the security deposit to help them out. In nicer zip codes I would run credit report.