Thank you --174.62.xxx.xxx

Read here about sec8, a few have them but most are frustrated with the system, I have about 30 established ones, then more agencies came into my area and they each have their own rules in spite of the HUD overview policy, be sure you already have your state and local tenant laws in something like a 3ring notebook for easy reference, then get the sec8 rules printed out somewhere that you can understand them for each agency in your area, and try to use your well established lease, the -sample- lease that some agencies provide have it worded where the tenant can do anything including painting your floor covering while the intention was to put paint on walls, tenants always seem to include outlets, extension cords, windows, doorknobs including the locks, venetian blinds, furniture they do not own, mirrors, furnace vents and enough on doors so they no longer close into the frame like they did at movein time, dont give them a lawn mower - their deepest understanding is the fuel tank needs to be filled with wine and beer but the mixing ratio is never correct so it wont start. --76.188.xxx.xxx

For most rental housing providers if possible get a market rent tenant. Only if there is high vacancy rate then one would look at other options. As there is more involved with governments then should consider joining a landlords association. Either one is going to learn from the school of hard knocks or doing things the proper way. Here it is not called section 8 but there are now government programs to help lower income tenants. So far have taken one where passed the inspection. The main problem with the rental apartments is it difficult to compete with illegal ramshackle fire trap rental units in houses which are paying property tax on a single family home not multi-residential. The potential for a loss of life in those illegal rental units is very high as there are no fire walls between the rental units or any sort fire protection for the tenants who live in those rental units. The reality here is need to fill vacant rental units but only as a last resort. In the past tenants who are on a rental subsidy are more likely to be on social assistance or disability. More likely to use illegal drugs along being more likely to fall into arrears of rent. Now as the economy improves find it is easier to get people who are working. The main difference here is the price of houses did not crash like in other countries. So owning a single family house is very expensive when one has mortgage payments, utilities and maintenance. There never was mortgage or banking crisis here but there still is a recession. --74.220.xxx.xxx

Again don't put yourself through this madness. --96.8.xxx.x

In Maine you do not have to accept section 8. --64.222.xxx.xxx

No, you do not need to accept Section 8 in Maine, but I suggest you do not advertise it. If anyone asks, verbally say that "I'm sorry this house/apartment is not approved for Section 8" which is true and get off the phone quickly. No need to get some tenant advocate riled up. --192.159.xxx.xxx

Thank you for the great advice. I just bought my first 3 family and have got a lot of questions/inquiries about accepting vouchers or Section 8. Fortunately there are well qualified inquiries also. I don't want to have to deal with more red tape. Great to have this community to get advice and help out where I can. Thank you --174.62.xxx.xxx

There are a few cities in my area that took it upon themselves to pass a ordinance requiring Sec8 to be accepted. The key is to know your local laws to avoid jamming yourself up. There are other, legal, ways to avoid Sec8. I am a member of a local LL association primarily to stay up on fair housing. --72.168.xxx.xx

Ellen --64.222.xxx.xxx

--108.51.xx.xxx