Qualified Section 8 applicants can be a boon to agents and owners because of the (consistent) on-time payment of the monthly rent promised. CHA has better screened voucher holders and have streamlined the process, making it much easier and more desirable to deal with CHA tenants than in times past. We get phone calls on our listings from Section 8 applicants. If our unit is not Sec. 8 approved, we might have a hard time finding something for an otherwise pleasant, reasonable, potentially qualified, and desirable tenant. If the MLS offered a ‘Sec. 8’ button, we can eliminate the trouble of calling, e-mailing and waiting for follow up on units that where no indication has been made if the owner is willing or even able to offer the units up to Section 8 applicants. We can also quickly screen the prospects seeking granite counter-tops, 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, hardwood, carpet and marble tile, ALL on the same floor (in that order) stainless steel appliances, all utilities included, no security deposit, where the owner will accept a 2 bedroom voucher for it, and finally, it’s a duplex, or a house. If we can’t accommodate them, we can let them know immediately and part ways without wasting time. We can better assist prospects facing unfortunate situations where they are forced to move out of units that can’t pass re-inspection under Sec. 8 guidelines. We can better assist otherwise hot prospects that haven’t found a unit in a safe and desirable neighborhood, or were too picky and have to find something ASAP before they lose their privilege. This will cut down on prospects that have no regard for time/professional courtesy, can be disloyal and impatient, and will increase trust among agents. In due time, a ripple effect will go BACK into the CHA voucher community, enhancing our respect and courtesy FROM, and value TO this valuable market because WE are prepared to service them better AND protect our time. Please support me in creating a mandatory selection criteria ‘button’ for CHA eligible rental listings. I encourage and welcome all feedback that will assist us in creating and better presenting our case to the decision makers and programmers of the Multiple Listing Service.

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