Section 8 Housing: A Guide for Private Landlords

By PropsManager Team | Dec 17, 2025

Section 8 Housing: A Guide for Private Landlords

Section 8 (Housing Choice Vouchers) helps low-income families afford housing. The government pays a portion of the rent directly to you.

The Pros

• Guaranteed Rent: The government portion is paid via direct deposit every month, on time.
• Large Tenant Pool: There is always high demand for Section 8 units.
• Long-Term Tenants: Voucher holders tend to stay longer to avoid the hassle of moving and re-inspecting.

The Cons

• Inspections: The unit must pass a HUD inspection before move-in and annually. They can be picky (e.g., peeling paint, handrails).
• Rent Limits: The Housing Authority sets a "Fair Market Rent" cap. You might not get top-dollar.
• Bureaucracy: Paperwork and delays in the first payment are common.

Screening

You still screen Section 8 tenants! You can check credit, criminal history, and rental references. You just cannot deny them solely because they have a voucher (in many jurisdictions).

Conclusion

Section 8 provides stability. If you have C-class properties, it is often a great strategy.