Section 8 - Affordablehousing.com - 0 inquiries on a property?

Question

I posted one of my properties on affordable housing website. The allowance for a 2bed apartment in that zip code according to the Rochester Housing Authority is $1775. I priced my unit at $1700, which is slightly higher than market rate (maybe $1600), but I've had 0 inquiries.

My listing has a grand total of 5 total views over a week period even after I "boosted" the listing. Am I missing something? Is there just no demand for my area? Looks like there hundreds of "prospects" looking for 2bed units and this would be within the allowance.

My listing can be seen here: https://www.affordablehousing.com/rochester-ny/185-mount-vernon-ave-1096145/

Lindsay Davis · Answer

I would ask support to look into it. Five views on a boosted listing doesn't sound right. Are you getting inquiries through other sites, or is it quiet everywhere?

Lee Futcher · Answer

Hey @Stephen Ptucha

Pricing it $75 under the allowance was a smart move, so I really don't think the rent is what's holding you back.

One thing I'd try is calling the Rochester Housing Authority and asking whether they keep a list of available units they share with voucher holders. Some tenants start with the list their caseworker hands them rather than a website, so getting on it can matter more than any boost.

I'd also take a fresh look at the first photo. If it's a hallway or a darker room, people tend to scroll right past, even when the rent fits their voucher.

When you search that site yourself for a 2 bedroom in that zip, does your unit come up on the first page?

Cheers,Lee

Stephen Ptucha · Answer

Why is every reply on these forums AI slop lol

James Jones · Answer

Stephen, 5 views in a week tells me the listing is not being seen, not that there is no demand for a 2BR at $1,700 under a $1,775 allowance. Check the listing first — complete details, clear photos, and the right bedroom count and rent showing. A boosted listing still needs to be found.

In Memphis I run 3BR and up for a reason. A 2BR rents for less and sits longer. A 3BR hits the Section 8 rent band and the 1% rule much easier. My band is $1,395-$1,950 for 3BR and up, buying single-family under $100K with ARV $180K-$265K.

If this stays a 2BR, I would not force it. I would run the numbers cold, and if the rent does not hit the 1% rule, move on. Deal flow is the bottleneck, not finding one listing to fix.

Section 8 - Affordablehousing.com - 0 inquiries on a property?

Section 8 - Affordablehousing.com - 0 inquiries on a property?

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