Can I turn down section 8 in Florida?

Can I turn down section 8 in Florida?

Warner Robins, GA · Member since 2016 · 244 posts · 167 votes
I recently had another rental go on the market in the fort Walton beach/Destin/niceville area. I had a request from someone wondering if I would accept section 8 tenants. Am I allowed to turn them down? My research indicated this can vary based on state but I didn't find much on Florida. What options do I have?
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John PowellPro Member
Real Estate Agent · Kennesaw, GA · Member since 2015 · 307 posts · 153 votes
8y
I get asked all the time. My answer is you must meet all of the requirements listed on the application. One of which is 3x rent in verifiable income. My house here rents for $1200 and I have yet to have a section 8 tenant show a $3600 income. I have yet to have one pay an application fee ($40 per adult) either. But I have had excellent tenants with great credit apply and get the house.
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  • Contractor · Jacksonville, FL · Member since 2017 · 1k+ posts · 2k+ votes
    8y
    yes. you are not obligated to accept section 8 in Florida.
  • John PowellPro Member
    Real Estate Agent · Kennesaw, GA · Member since 2015 · 307 posts · 153 votes
    8y
    I get asked all the time. My answer is you must meet all of the requirements listed on the application. One of which is 3x rent in verifiable income. My house here rents for $1200 and I have yet to have a section 8 tenant show a $3600 income. I have yet to have one pay an application fee ($40 per adult) either. But I have had excellent tenants with great credit apply and get the house.
  • Real Estate Broker · Naples, FL · Member since 2013 · 9k+ posts · 6k+ votes
    8y

    There is no law requiring a landlord to set themselves up for section 8.

  • Rental Property Investor · Gulf Breeze, FL · Member since 2014 · 1k+ posts · 733 votes
    8y

    agree with @Mark Fries @Zach Westerfield  In our properties’ counties, Section 8 housing is an elective. And if you want to gain Section 8 tenants, you have to fill out the application with the county, go through their inspection, etc. 

    if you’re not interested in having section 8 tenants, then don’t apply. And nothing wrong with telling inquirers that you don’t accept Section 8. 

  • Zach WesterfieldPro Member
    OP
    Warner Robins, GA · Member since 2016 · 244 posts · 167 votes
    8y
    Thanks for the help!
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