Planning and Housing Department

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Advantages

The benefits of the Section 8 Housing Program are designed to help both the renter and the landlord.  The program is based on a private-market approach that allows a renter and landlord to reach a rental agreement that meets program guidelines set up by HUD and the City of Ames.

For the Renter:

1. A portion of the rent is paid so that the renter typically pays 30% (not to exceed 40% at admission) of their income towards rent and the utility allowance;
2. The renter is assured decent, safe, and sanitary housing;
3. The renter can occupy any type of rental unit (apartment, duplex, single family, etc), if the rental unit qualifies under program guidelines;
4. The renter may choose to live anywhere within the city limits of Ames; and
5. The renter will receive a utility allowance (per HUD's schedule) for those utilities that would be paid for by the renter.

For the Landlord:

1. The landlord does not have to lose a good renter if the landlord has a renter who qualifies for the Program.
2. The reduction of the renter's share of the rent might insure more timely payments and the continuation of residence in that unit.
3. The landlord can collect security deposit amounts as allowed under state law.