New Section 8 Housing Policy Change in Dallas

[Dylan Barnard]

I was listening to NPR this morning, and they were talking about some changes to the section 8 housing policy in Dallas to include an extra ~$200 average in the section 8 voucher for the landlord. Does anyone know more about this or can share some additional reading on it? It sounded like something to learn more about.

[Jennifer T.]

I WISH S8 was like that where I lived.  I'm jealous, lol.  There is a huge waiting list in my area.  But that is from a shortage of S8 funds, not a shortage of housing.  In fact, last I heard, the waiting list in my area wasn't even open for people to add their name, unless they were disabled.

There are a lot of posts about the pros and cons for S8.  Tenants tend to do more damage to units, but stay longer term.  You have to have a move-in inspection and annual inspection for the units.  At least where I live, the inspections are very detailed and nit-picky.  The portion S8 pays typically comes like clockwork, directly deposited in your account.

I have two S8 tenants.  FWIW, one of them is a real PITA to deal with and I'm not renewing her lease.  The other one is mostly great.  They both take decent care of the units.   

There are some LL's who won't rent to S8 at all.  But I'd look into it, if I invested in the Dallas area.