Jonah JacobsWhile having one could certainly help lower your rent, see why there may be a better way to get a cheap apartment.
Some Section 8 applicants say they were told it would take one year before getting a housing voucher. Others say two, while some even say they were given 10-year waits from Public Housing Agencies.
Why would it take years to get a Section 8 voucher from the government? Because so many people need one, as rent prices are out of control.
Well, while you should still apply for a Section 8 voucher because it can be a real game-changer for your finances, here’s what you should do after applying instead of sitting idle: Start contacting buildings with affordable housing units. Why? Because one could put you in a safe yet cheap apartment without the need for a voucher.
How To Find Affordable Housing Contacts
Finding affordable housing with or without a voucher is a numbers game. The more people you contact, the higher your chances of getting that affordable place you can call home.
While you may find your own ways of getting affordable housing contacts, here are some of the most common methods:
- Do a Google search for affordable housing near you.
- Use this HUD map to see affordable housing units in your area.
- Contact Public Housing Agencies and ask their counselors if they have affordable housing lists you can use for reference.
What To Ask Your Affordable Housing Contacts
You can get in touch with affordable housing property managers or administrators, usually via phone or email. You may need to do both to get an answer, as the response rate can be as low as 20 percent. Don’t let that get you down, though, as persistence can bring results. So keep trying.
As for what to ask when making those contacts, you can use these scripts to feel them out and see if they may have what you need:
When calling by phone:
Hi,
I’m interested in being a resident in one of your units. Is your waitlist currently open?
How long is the waitlist?
How much is the rent?
Do you have HUD-subsidized units? What about units that charge 30 percent of income? (ask those questions if you cannot afford the rent on your own. The second can work well if you don’t have a voucher)
How many bedrooms does each unit have?
Could I make an appointment to complete an application? Do I need to do it in person, or can I do it through mail or email?
Could I have your email address?
Thank you.
When emailing:
Dear (name of manager or administrator):
I’m interested in learning more about becoming a resident in your building. I noticed that you’ve helped house low-income applicants in the past, and I have similar needs. Could you please answer these quick questions?
Can I apply to your waitlist?
How long is the current wait?
Do you work with Section 8 vouchers? (if you have a voucher, use that line)
Do you have units that charge 30 percent of income? (if you don’t have a voucher, use that line)Thank you for your time. I look forward to speaking with you shortly.
Sincerely,
(Your name)
Mark Luigi Dacumos
