nnBecoming a Section 8 landlord is a choice - even with fair market housing laws in place, landlords are not required to accept Section 8 tenants. However, if the housing demand in your area is low enough that you have empty units, and your properties are up to date and will pass inspection, landlords actually stand to benefit a great deal from participating in the Section 8 program. Landlords know that Section 8 tenants will pay rent on time and that rent will be comparable to fair market value based on location and unit size.nnSection 8 provides a long list of high quality tenantsnnFinding renters is easy given the long (3-5 year) wait-lists that most jurisdictions have for Section 8 applicants. This is a great way to fill empty units, in addition to establishing a good relationship with the federally run program. It is true that many Section 8 tenants are minorities, but on average, they are more responsible tenants. Renters who get a subsidy through Section 8 know that they can be permanently removed from Section 8 eligibility if they fall behind on rent payment or cause any atypical damage to the apartment or town-home.nnHow to become a Section 8 LandlordnnIf you've decided that Section 8 could work for you as a landlord, the first step is to contact you local housing agency. The agency will get all of your information and will be able to list your property for any voucher holder looking in your area. You will then determine the asking price for your rental units, which must fall within fair market value. If utilities are included, rent can be higher as long as the charges are deemed reasonable.nnA Section 8 tenant is still subject to a one-month rent security deposit just like any other renter. Property damage that goes beyond normal wear and tear is the responsibility of the tenant, as in the lease agreement layout. Any problems that arise should be handled according to local regulations. Just be sure to get a copy of any warning letters or eviction notices to the local housing agency with whom the Section 8 tenant is working.nnTo Find out more about our tenant placement program please feel free to contact us at 248-757-0926 or go to www.section8pros.com n