Start to build a Section 8 portfolio

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Start to build a Section 8 portfolio

Eric Michiels
Flipper/Rehabber · Denver, CO · Member since 2020 · 43 posts · 36 votes

Hi,

A while back, I met a person who recommended an online course on how to be successful with Section 8 investing. I cannot find that resource. Does anyone know any good online resources for starting with Section 8? I've seen some books on Amazon that look interesting.


Thank you,


Eric Michiels

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Michael K GallagherBusiness Member
Real Estate Agent · Columbus OH · Member since 2018 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes
9mo

@Eric Michiels there have been several "section 8 gurus" that have come and gone over the years.  Its pretty localized to do well honestly your efforts are probably better sent finding a manager in the market you want to invest in that handles section 8.  But we just had a notice go out in columbus that the CMHA payments are delayed due to federal funding delays.  Not a huge deal if you have 1 or 2 section 8 properties, but if all the sudden your entire portfolio is "late"...perhaps not as secure as it's always cracked up to be. 

I've placed a couple section 8 tenants over the years here in this market, and the process is cumbersome, and i can only imagine it changes depending on the market you are in.

[email protected]614-362-2231
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  • Michael K GallagherBusiness Member
    Real Estate Agent · Columbus OH · Member since 2018 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes
    9mo

    @Eric Michiels there have been several "section 8 gurus" that have come and gone over the years.  Its pretty localized to do well honestly your efforts are probably better sent finding a manager in the market you want to invest in that handles section 8.  But we just had a notice go out in columbus that the CMHA payments are delayed due to federal funding delays.  Not a huge deal if you have 1 or 2 section 8 properties, but if all the sudden your entire portfolio is "late"...perhaps not as secure as it's always cracked up to be. 

    I've placed a couple section 8 tenants over the years here in this market, and the process is cumbersome, and i can only imagine it changes depending on the market you are in.

    [email protected]614-362-2231
    2Reply
  • Marc Winter
    Real Estate Broker · Northeast PA · Member since 2017 · 2k+ posts · 2k+ votes
    9mo

    @Eric Michiels,

    Try checking in with the Section 8 provider office that serves your rental location(s). Learn about the benefits and obligations, market rents (usually priced per bedroom), inspections, etc.  Then, do an AI deep dive to see if everything they've told you lines up.

    We lived through several market/economic downturns. When the government shuts down, the Section 8 'guaranteed' payments can be halted.  Short-term, it's painful, so keep that in mind.

    Think about not putting all your rentals into any particular government program.  That's easier said than done in some states, like CA, or WA.  Recommendation: Relocate those rentals to a more investor-friendly state. 

    2Reply
  • Kerlous TadresBusiness Member
    Realtor · Columbus, OH · Member since 2023 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes
    9mo

    @Eric Michiels, from my experience, you don’t need a fancy paid course to get started with Section 8. I’d recommend checking out the free guides on DoorLoop and TurboTenant. They break down inspections, rents, and how the program actually works in real life. The “Section 8 Masterclass” on YouTube is also a solid walkthrough if you want something quick and visual.

    If you’re just getting started, I always recommend learning your local Housing Authority’s process first; that’s what really makes or breaks your experience.

    [email protected]614-490-1163
    Kerlous Tadres | Reafco Real Estate539 Reviews
    WebsiteView Page
    2Reply
  • Arman AhmedPro Member
    Real Estate Agent · Columbus Cleveland Dayton, OH · Member since 2024 · 2k+ posts · 906 votes
    9mo

    @Eric Michiels

    Hi Eric, I don’t know about online courses specifically, but if you’re open to Midwest markets, Section 8 investing can be much easier to get started with. Lower acquisition costs, strong cashflow, and steady tenant demand make it ideal for building a portfolio. Many investors find boot-on-the-ground support and off-market deals help them scale faster while learning the ropes.

    [email protected]614-418-6081
    1Reply
  • Elealeh Fulmaran
    Specialist · Member since 2025 · 483 posts · 270 votes
    9mo

    Great question—Section 8 can be a solid, steady play when you know the rules. Two quick tips: start with your local housing authority’s landlord page to learn inspection standards and rent limits, and talk to two experienced PMs who manage voucher tenants to get real timelines, pass/fail items, and lease nuances.

    Which market are you targeting, and do you already have a housing authority or PM in mind to call this week?

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