Volume 6
If you own multifamily property in the Twin Cities Metro area and have been contacted for the first time by a section 8 participant expressing an interest in a rental unit, you need to read up on Section 8 Voucher Housing. Details vary by locality, which can be found on the HousingLink interactive map that leads to location specific information. The Section 8 Program is a three-way partnership between tenants, property owners, and the HRA. The household tenant first receives a Section 8 voucher from a housing authority. The household will pay 30-40% of their income towards the rent, and the local housing authority pays the difference. The program offers the owner a guaranteed portion of rent paid at the beginning of each month by the HRA.
The following steps can be followed to begin renting to a Section 8 participant after they have expressed interest in an available unit. After the landlord screens prospective tenants, they will complete the “Request for Tenancy Approval” (RTA) form. This then allows the HRA to “approve” rent and tenancy. Following approval, a HRA or City inspector will perform a housing quality standards inspection. After the inspection, the owner receives leasing and contract documents from the HRA. When the documents are finalized, the HRA issues rent assistance payment to the owner. This is guaranteed by the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) contract.
As an owner/manager you might still have questions about affordable housing. The Metropolitan Council website provides information, including a detailed specific Owner Handbook. An owner may also list their vacancy at www.housinglink.org.
For more information by specific location:
