I grew up in Cleveland and personally own a S8 rental.

I get the feeling that the city sincerely wants more housing and they are trying to make it work for folks.Feel free to get in touch if I can be helpful!

The flip side I've noticed is they're usually personally guaranteed which may or may not be a deal breaker for people

I have a potential tenant who feels utilities should be included.

Not the best experience but I believe that was the person ...not the section 8 program.

Might need to just get to a more informed person at the lender to ask these questions, or get your attorney involved. 

Specifically regarding plumbing you could add (depending on your State or Local Laws) "... unless determined by repair person that such blockage occurred during the time Tenant controlled the Premises and due to some fault or negligence of Tenant, specifically excluding blockages caused by roots or backups from the street..."

Hey @Cody Lewis, I think that is the perfect amount personally.

I personally have used Citywide for the past 3 or 4 years and am satisfied with their service. 

Really seems like the smart move is to just hold on and wait to see what happens in early spring next year, but if anyone feels differently, I'm all ears.