by Rachelle Benson

Created on: February 24, 2009

HUD Housing: What you need to know.

Times seem to be getting more and more difficult. Housing is becoming an issue for many as foreclosures are on the rise and finding affordable housing is getting harder and harder.

There are several ways to get your foot in the door for HUD Housing or, The US department of Housing and Urban Development. You can hear it being referred to Section 8 housing, low income housing, and other names. In the end, it can be a beneficial program if used the way it was intended.

If you are drawing unemployment, or getting assistance with medical or food stamps, inquire within the state building where HUD housing is in your area. Usually they have this on file for people. There is housing for families as well as low income housing for seniors who live on very small income from their Social Security. Once you have a phone number or address, call or make an appointment to get your name on a waiting list. There is nothing wrong with beginning the process if you know you may be laid off within the year and you are still working. Waiting lists can be as long as two years.

That is how mainstream housing is dealt with. There are also programs in most communities that mirror HUD except funds are from local sources and not the US
government. Look into programs that are called "Community Action". They are able to contract with other avenues other than apartment buildings strictly built for HUD.

All programs are built on a sliding scale as far as your income goes. The less you make, the less your rent. The government pays the majority and you pay the minority. For example: The three bedroom unit needed for your family rents for $700.00. You have no income and live on welfare. The government pays $660.00 to the unit owner/manager. You are then asked to pay your $40.00 share. Community action programs work the same way. Every six months to a year your situation and income is re-evaluated to see if your portion needs to be increased or decreased.

Another avenue is to find a good property manager that is experienced and knowledgeable about Section 8 housing and laws. There are property managers out there that "fight for the little people" and will contract private properties to help both parties involved. Getting a private property into the program takes a little time and paperwork; inspections by the housing authority and with a final stamp of approval, a contract between the tenant and landlord can be in place with HUD. The owner if guaranteed most of

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