Hi Nicholas. I want to explore Section 8 as a RE strategy
Keep in mind that subsidized tenants can use their voucher in any neighborhood (especially in states like MD where "source of income" is a protected class). In my experience they don't want to be in "rougher" neighborhoods anymore than a quality market rate tenant does. If you're buying in cheap/rough areas then you're likely going to be getting market rate tenants who, for whatever reason (but usually something in their criminal or rental background) can't rent in better areas and can't qualify for vouchers.
Nothing wrong with being a low-income housing provider as an RE strategy, just don't assume that subsidized tenants will be flocking to your units.
Homeowner · Lake Arrowhead, CA · Member since 2022 · 14 posts · 14 votes
3y
Hi Dan!
I've been using a website called "area vibes" has alot of detailed info on any neighborhood you need, like the demographics, crime, schools, it rates everything using a grading system. As I am in California seeking property in Pittsburgh with over 90 different neighborhoods, its very hard to tell which are the safer ones, but area vibes helps alot. And if you find a better one, please let me know! P.S. I know a guy out in Baltimore flipping and BRRR'ing in the lower income neighborhoods and making a killing, but he's got his system down solid. Good luck to you!
Hi Nicholas. I want to explore Section 8 as a RE strategy
Keep in mind that subsidized tenants can use their voucher in any neighborhood (especially in states like MD where "source of income" is a protected class). In my experience they don't want to be in "rougher" neighborhoods anymore than a quality market rate tenant does. If you're buying in cheap/rough areas then you're likely going to be getting market rate tenants who, for whatever reason (but usually something in their criminal or rental background) can't rent in better areas and can't qualify for vouchers.
Nothing wrong with being a low-income housing provider as an RE strategy, just don't assume that subsidized tenants will be flocking to your units.