I'm an engineer with an MBA so complexity isn't a concern.

Get an MBA.

Hey Chicago investors -I have a specific question regarding the Cook County AHSAP (Affordable Housing Special Assessment Program).I am under contract on a building in Phoenix, IL, that just received its formal AHSAP approval letter (25% AV reduction) from the Assessor.

There are programs that don't even look at FICO, but you'll be limited to something like 50% LTV....so you need to have significant equity.

The dominant amenity might be a lake, trails, glamping units, or even community-driven programming, but the takeaway is the same: you’re underwriting an operating business, not just dirt.

I won't put the pricing here but the terms are very fair (much lower than the example here), especially so in the loyalty program after three completed deals.

Arizona is one area I’m actively exploring (with a visit planned in February), but I’m also looking closely at Texas, Florida, parts of the Midwest, and other secondary or tertiary markets where development fundamentals still make sense.For context, my background is primarily on the ownership and operations side:I’m a Marine Corps veteran, PMI-certified Project Manager, with a BA in Technology and an MBA in Business ManagementI currently own and operate 4 multi-unit and mixed-use properties in ChicagoI have significant hands-on experience with Section 8 / voucher-based multifamily, inspections, compliance, tenant management, and long-term operationsMy mindset is long-term hold, not quick turn or merchant build, possibly move-into one and house hack, while managing the others. 

I’ve reviewed the Fair Market Rents listed on HUDUser.gov and was wondering whether the rent amounts shown by ZIP code reflect the actual payments landlords typically receive through the Section 8 program, or if they’re just guidelines.Based on my research, Detroit, MI seems like a solid market to get started due to demand and affordability.

Quote from @Chris Seveney: There’s so many programs.

It is a strategy that I've done with my wife 9 times in 8 years, so it is very powerful and you can live for reduced cost and sometimes for free if you do it correctly, and that's my favorite part of it.Regarding the Section 8 question, I'm very familiar with Section 8 since I've down it on about 8 units total in my 20 unit portfolio in Denver, Aurora and Englewood, so I've worked with all the housing authorities and understand the program very well.