Landlords Cash In On Tulsa Housing Authority Incentive Program For Section 8 Applicants

The Tulsa Housing Authority wants more landlords and property managers to accept Section 8 Housing Vouchers. Housing officials say it could be a win-win scenario since vacancies would be filled and people in need of housing would get a place to live.

Mat Zalk is a property manager taking advantage of the Tulsa Housing Authority’s incentives for accepting Section 8 vouchers. He says there is not much of a difference when it comes to renters in the program and people outside of it.

“Rent is incredibly consistent,” said Zalk. “The tenant base is generally pretty good as long as you’re screening your residents just like any other conventional lease that you would do.”

Zalk says landlords should get over any stigmas that come with Section 8 applicants and cash in on the Housing Authority’s incentives. Those payouts include up to $5,000 for landlords new to accepting vouchers.

Ginny Hensley with the Tulsa Housing Authority says this is a way to create more opportunities and tackle a growing problem.

“Affordable housing truly encompasses all the way up to about 80% of area-medium income,” said Hensley. “Here in Tulsa County, for a family of four, that would equate to almost $70,000.”

Hensley says there are nearly 8,600 active applications for affordable housing. She says those lucky enough to get placed have provided steady income and long retention rates for landlords and property managers.

“There’s really not an excuse for any sort of rental property in Tulsa to have vacancy when you have that level of need,” said Hensley.

Landlords and property managers interested in signing up or learning more about the incentive program can go to TulsaHousing.org.