All Forum Posts by: Raquel Singer

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Ryan, please provide the source for the information that you have provided below; where does it come from?

"...It is actually expressly illegal for host families to take compensation in the US. The only incentive or subsidies you are allowed to claim is a $50 per month per student tax credit under charitable contributions. Other countries do allow payments or stipends from the host agencies and may also offer better incentives, but not in the US".

Ryan, 

Thank you for taking the time to respond to my query and for your valuable feedback.  You wrote that "It is actually expressly illegal for host families to take compensation in the US"  --  what is the source of your feedback that it's "expressly illegal" to be compensated to host a student in the U.S.?  I would like to look into it and I'd like to find out the law/regulation that you are referring to.  Thank you.

I need your help, please. I've been reading about the recent trend of Chinese families sending their children to attend high-school in the U.S. I'd like to explore the possibility of buying a large property to house a group of such students, i.e. student housing.  Do you know of any government incentives, subsidies or programs to help people like me to offer such housing?  I've called various government agencies but nobody seems to understand my query and I'm hoping you have the expertise to steer me on the right direction. Thank you.

Thank you for all of you who took the time to provide feedback on this issue. I really appreciate your guidance and input.

I'm considering buying a multi-family property (10 units) in a bad part of Miami (very low income, high crime).  My realtor spoke to the rep for the seller and mentioned that some of the units are occupied by squatters but that he will get rid of squatters before closing. The current owner wants twice as much as he paid about a year ago and it does not seem like he invested any money for improvements, etc.  I was thinking of buying it and making some improvements to attract more stable tenants. Am I looking for trouble in considering a run-down property in a bad part of town?

I currently have a mortgage with a private lender; my credit score is great.  Is there any way to refinance my private mortgage at 8.5% for a lower rate with a bank?