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1. What is the Housing Choice Voucher Program?

The Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCVP) is a federally-funded, locally-administered rental assistance program that helps low-income families, the elderly, and the disabled afford decent, safe housing in the private market. The participant is free to choose any housing type that meets the requirements of the program.

2. How can I list my property so that HCVP participants will know I have an available unit?

You can list the properties at any of the websites listed below

https://mdhousingsearch.org/

https://www.apartments.com/md/

https://www.gosection8.com/

3. How much can I charge for rent?

Landlords determine the asking rental price for a unit; however, the rent must be reasonable compared to other units of similar size, location, quality, and type. The Housing Authority will make a determination as to the reasonableness of the proposed rent in relation to comparable units available for lease in the private unassisted market. If the rent is not affordable because the family share would be more than 40% of the family’s monthly adjusted income, the Housing Authority will negotiate with the owner to reduce the rent for the family, so it is in compliance with HUD guidelines.

4. Can the tenant pay extra to meet the amount I am requesting for the rental?

No. The requested contract rent must be approved by the Housing Authority. Families may not pay a rent share greater that the amount determined by the Housing Authority. Side deals between the landlord and family are illegal and could result in the family being terminated and the landlord disbarred, suspended or subject to a limited denial of participation.

5. If a HCVP participant decide to rent my unit, what are the next steps?

If participant decides to rent your unit and you agree to lease it to the participant, the next steps are as follows

1. You and the participant must complete a Request For Tenancy Approval (RFTA)
2. The Housing Authority must determine the proposed rent to be reasonable and you must agree to accept the rent approved by the Housing Authority.
3. The unit is inspected and passes Housing Quality Standards (HQS).
4. You must have a current Rental Housing License prior to leasing the unit.
5. You and the participant sign a lease.
6. You and the Housing Authority sign a Housing Assistance Contract (HAP).
7. You will be required to sign up for direct deposit.
8. You will be required to complete and return a W-9 form.