PHA Section 8 Process

Brent Khusid • Aug 29, 2023

PHA's Section 8 Process from Start to Finish

In this article we will outline the whole section 8 process from start to finish including some pros and cons towards the end! We have dealt a lot with PHA and we definitely know all the ins and outs so feel free to contact your friends at ANCHOR in case you have more questions or need some help even after reading this article!

The Process

What makes a property eligible for section 8? The answer is any property is eligible for section 8 as long as it passes PHA's qualifications which will be outlined below. You can either advertise your property as one that only accepts section 8, one that accepts either (section 8 or non section 8), or one that doesn't accept section 8.

If your property does in fact accept section 8 than you need someone with a section 8 voucher to be interested in your property. The important contingency with the voucher is that it specifies the amount of bedrooms the voucher is good for and the dates the voucher is eligible for. If the voucher is for more bedrooms than the property has in it (such as a 3 bedroom voucher for a 2 bedroom house) than the voucher might still be acceptable but you can expect it to be for less rent (out of PHA's portion). If the voucher is for less bedrooms than what the property has in it (such as a 3 bedroom voucher for a 4 bedroom house) than that voucher will most likely not be applicable for that property. If the voucher is eligible for your property and the applicant wants to proceed you are good to proceed with the process. We here at ANCHOR like to screen the applicants before we commit to them to make sure they have the qualifications to be good tenants going forward. We do this by running a background check to see if they have any prior evictions, criminal history, and that they do have some type of funds coming in so they will be able to pay their portion of the rent.

Before we proceed any further we have to make sure that your property has a rental license and the owner does not have any tax holds. Then, once that's confirmed, we have the applicant drop off their voucher and application so we can fill it out. Once it's filled out they usually come back to sign it so we can send it to PHA through our portal. Once they receive the application and confirm that everything is correct then they schedule a date for the initial inspection.

When PHA comes out for the initial inspection they have a specific checklist of items that they are looking for at the property, the results can vary depending on the inspector that comes out to the property so we wait for them to give us a checklist (if the property fails) so we know exactly what repairs need to be done. PHA will schedule a re-inspection date if the property failed the first time around so all repairs need to be done by that date or the property gets placed under abatement by section 8 preventing you from being able to go forward until the necessary repairs are made.

Once the property passes the inspection PHA will determine what portion of the rent is paid by them and what portion will be paid by the tenant. Once that is determined they will schedule a lease signing with the tenant and will usually send the lease a couple days before the signing. Move-in payments are usually at the owners discretion. We recommend collecting a security deposit and first month's rent but in some cases you might want to collect last month's rent as well.

Pros and Cons

Just like with anything in life dealing with section 8 has its own pros and cons. One of the main cons with section 8 is the regular maintenance that needs to be done. Section 8 will schedule an inspection once every 2 years and if your property fails inspection they can withhold their portion of the rent. This can become a real problem if you are dealing with a tenant that causes damage to the property because either way it will be on you, the owner, to rectify those damages. Additionally, the tenant needs to recertify every 2 years. This is usually not as big as a problem because they know that if they want to receive the support, they need to do the recertification. The main pro with section 8 is the fact that you know that they will pay a portion of the rent until the person moves out or is evicted. This can bring good peace of mind especially if you have dealt with delinquent tenants in the past. We know that dealing with PHA can be complicated and we are hoping that this article helps! As always you can contact your friends at ANCHOR to help you with the investment that you put lots of time and money into.

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Weatherizing Your Home For The Summer

By Brent Khusid • 30 Apr, 2024

Weatherizing Your Property for a Cool Summer: Tips for Northern Homeowners As the warmth of summer approaches, it’s time for Northern homeowners to prepare their properties for the seasonal shift. While most people associate weatherizing with winter, it’s equally important to ensure your home stays comfortable and energy-efficient during the hot summer months. From sealing air leaks to optimizing insulation, here are some essential tips for weatherizing your property in the North for a cool and pleasant summer. Seal Air Leaks: Air leaks not only let cool air escape but also allow warm, humid air to enter your home, making your cooling system work harder. Inspect windows, doors, and any other openings for cracks and gaps. Caulk or weatherstrip these areas to prevent air leakage and improve energy efficiency. Insulate Attics and Basements: Proper insulation is key to maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature year-round. In the summer, insulation helps keep cool air inside and prevents hot outdoor air from seeping in. Ensure that your attic and basement are adequately insulated to minimize heat transfer. Install Energy-Efficient Windows: Windows are significant contributors to heat gain in homes. Consider upgrading to energy-efficient windows that are designed to reduce heat transfer and block harmful UV rays. Additionally, installing window treatments such as blinds or curtains can further enhance energy efficiency by providing shade and insulation. Use Fans Strategically: Ceiling fans and portable fans are cost-effective ways to improve air circulation and create a cooling breeze indoors. In the summer, set your ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise to push cool air downward. Use portable fans to direct airflow toward occupied areas, allowing you to raise the thermostat temperature without sacrificing comfort. Maintain Your Cooling System: Before the summer heat sets in, schedule a professional inspection and maintenance service for your air conditioning system. Clean or replace air filters regularly to ensure optimal airflow and efficiency. Consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat to regulate indoor temperatures and save energy when you’re away from home. Shade Your Home’s Exterior: External shading can significantly reduce solar heat gain and lower indoor temperatures. Planting trees strategically around your property can provide natural shade and enhance curb appeal. Installing awnings, pergolas, or trellises over windows and outdoor living spaces can also block direct sunlight and keep your home cooler. Use Reflective Roofing Materials: If you’re due for a roof replacement or renovation, consider opting for reflective roofing materials. Light-colored roofs or those coated with reflective coatings can reflect sunlight away from your home, reducing heat absorption and lowering indoor temperatures. Minimize Heat Sources: Appliances and electronics generate heat when in use, contributing to the overall thermal load in your home. Minimize heat gain by using energy-efficient appliances, turning off unnecessary electronics, and avoiding activities that generate excess heat during the hottest parts of the day. Seal Ductwork: Leaky ducts can result in significant energy losses and reduce the effectiveness of your cooling system. Inspect your ductwork for leaks, gaps, or disconnected joints, and seal them using mastic sealant or metal tape. Properly sealed ducts ensure that cooled air reaches its intended destination efficiently. Schedule a Home Energy Audit: Consider scheduling a professional home energy audit to identify areas for improvement and prioritize energy-saving upgrades. An energy audit can help you pinpoint inefficiencies in your home’s thermal envelope and HVAC system, allowing you to make informed decisions about weatherization and energy conservation measures. By taking proactive steps to weatherize your property for the summer, Northern homeowners can enjoy a cooler, more comfortable indoor environment while reducing energy consumption and utility costs. Whether you’re sealing air leaks, upgrading insulation, or optimizing your cooling system, investing in weatherization now can pay dividends in energy savings and home comfort for years to come. So, gear up for a cool and enjoyable summer by preparing your home to beat the heat!

How to Make Your Rental Stand Out for the Spring and Summer

By Brent Khusid • 29 Mar, 2024

5 Ways to Make Your Property Stand Out as Spring and Summer Approach As the temperatures rise and nature begins to bloom, it’s the perfect time to elevate the appeal of your property. Whether you're preparing to sell, rent, or simply want to enjoy a refreshed atmosphere, spring and summer offer fantastic opportunities to enhance your property's allure. Here are five effective ways to make your property stand out as the vibrant seasons approach: 1. Enhance Curb Appeal The exterior of your property is the first thing visitors notice, so it's crucial to make a stellar first impression. Start by tidying up the landscaping: mow the lawn, trim bushes and hedges, and add fresh mulch to flower beds. Plant colorful flowers that thrive in the warmer weather to add pops of color and charm. Additionally, consider giving your front door a fresh coat of paint or adding stylish house numbers and outdoor lighting fixtures to create an inviting entrance. 2. Create Outdoor Living Spaces Take advantage of the warmer weather by creating outdoor living spaces that encourage relaxation and entertainment. Whether you have a spacious backyard or a cozy balcony, investing in comfortable outdoor furniture, such as lounge chairs, dining sets, or hammocks, can transform your outdoor area into a retreat. Add finishing touches like outdoor rugs, throw pillows, and potted plants to create a welcoming ambiance where residents and guests can unwind and enjoy the sunshine. 3. Add Seasonal Décor Embrace the spirit of the season by incorporating seasonal décor into your property's interior and exterior spaces. Swap out heavy winter textiles for lighter fabrics and bright, cheerful colors that reflect the energy of spring and summer. Consider placing vases of freshly cut flowers throughout your home, displaying vibrant artwork, or updating throw pillows and bedding with floral patterns or tropical motifs. Outside, hang festive banners, string lights, or place potted plants and hanging baskets to add a touch of seasonal charm. 4. Upgrade Outdoor Amenities Make your property a desirable destination by upgrading outdoor amenities that cater to warm-weather activities. Install a barbecue grill or outdoor kitchen area for al fresco dining experiences, set up a fire pit or outdoor fireplace for cozy gatherings on cool evenings, or add a swimming pool or hot tub for refreshing dips and relaxation. Providing these outdoor amenities not only enhances the enjoyment of your property but also increases its appeal to potential buyers or renters seeking a resort-like lifestyle. 5. Highlight Natural Light Maximize the influx of natural light that comes with the longer days of spring and summer by showcasing your property's windows and outdoor views. Remove heavy drapes or curtains and opt for sheer or lightweight window treatments that allow sunlight to filter in while maintaining privacy. Rearrange furniture to capitalize on natural light sources and create bright, airy spaces that feel open and inviting. Additionally, consider adding mirrors strategically to reflect light and make rooms appear larger and more spacious. By implementing these strategies, you can make your property stand out as spring and summer approach, creating an inviting and appealing environment for residents and guests alike. Whether you're looking to sell, rent, or simply enjoy your home to the fullest, embracing the vibrancy of the seasons will enhance the beauty and functionality of your property. So, seize the opportunity to refresh your surroundings and make the most of the warmer months ahead!

Unveiling Pittsburgh's Real Estate Market

By Brent Khusid • 29 Feb, 2024

As Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, undergoes a renaissance, its real estate market stands as a beacon of opportunity for investors seeking long-term returns and stability. In this article, we delve into the dynamics of Pittsburgh's real estate market and outline the best strategies for investing in this burgeoning city.