Since you are asking a specific question about Section 8 and not whether or not you should use the program, I won't go into the specifics of my experience other than to say that it has worked out quite well for me.As for how Section 8 will affect your area, IMO, most areas that are suitable for Section are already relatively low-income neighborhoods.

@Zk Lani I've been trying to do more research on AirBnBs in downtown Columbia as I think there is a huge need for visitors for Fort Jackson and UofSC parents, football games, etc.

This can be checked by plugging-in the property address to the link below:http://www.freddiemac.com/homepossible/eligibility.htmlIf you can find a suitable property that does not have an AMI cap (no income limit), you should be good to go with 5% down. 

I am considering developing a web-based mapping platform that will allow single family home investors -- and especially their service providers/advisors -- to quickly determine suitable locations in the US to focus their investment efforts (down to the block group or subdivision). 

We decided to look for secondary markets (meaning none LA, NYC and soon to be DFW) that still have some room to find good deals in price range that it suitable for us. we also didn't want cities with more than 500,000 people. 

I am considering developing a web-based mapping platform that will allow single family home investors -- and their service providers/advisors -- to quickly determine suitable locations in the US to focus their investment efforts (down to the block group or subdivision).I wanted to get some quick feedback on whether you would use such a tool or think that someone would.My thinking is the target audience is people with no geographic restriction and are open to anything -- the ultimate out-of-state-investor -- who wants to find areas worth focusing on.

I was looking for a property that was in a safe neighborhood, with marketability to seasonal visitors, large outdoor space, the ability to always attract a certain target demographic of a particular type of medical student, mainly cosmetic repairs, near public transportation, high walkability and in an appreciating neighborhood.

Perhaps your market is unique; the numbers work and the town has the appropriate zoning and you can identify a suitable lot.

If an approved applicant does not sign the lease that you give them and pay up then keep looking until you find someone suitable whom will.

@Kyle DanielsThe market is very hot in KC, so all properties are getting snapped up, especially those suitable for BRRRR or flipping.