Owner Update "Question of The Month"

Q: I have heard TMHA staff refer to a rental unit as not being "Rent Reasonable." What does this mean?

HUD requires the housing authority to complete a "test" on each new program unit, and on any unit requesting a rent increase. This is the "Rent Reasonableness" test.

In order to complete this test, the housing authority must compare the program unit to unassisted "market" units that are similar in size, type (like single family, duplex, mobile, etc.), age, geographic area, and amenities. For each test, we have to show three comparables.

The purpose of the Rent Reasonableness test is to assure 1) that a fair rent is paid for units selected for participation in the Section 8 program, and 2) that the program does not have the effect of inflating rents in the community.

In order to obtain the information to determine rent reasonableness, TMHA must continually survey owners here in Tuscarawas County to find out what average market units are really renting for. Data we have gets old and may not accurately reflect current market conditions.

This is where you can help us. Please take a moment to fill in the attached survey for one of the rental units that you own which is NOT being occupied currently by a TMHA tenant. Any type of unit - from a 0 BR to a 4BR anywhere in the county is acceptable.

In order to thank you for your time and effort, we are giving away sets of 4 brushless car wash vouchers (value $20 ea.). For every completed survey you give us, you will receive one entry into our drawing. Winners will be notified by mail or phone. Feel free to photocopy the survey or call us and we'll mail you extras. Your completed surveys can be mailed to us, or faxed in to 330-339-0115.

We will plan to draw names by July 31st, so get your surveys in by that time.

JULY Office Closings:

Monday, July 5th in observance of July 4th holiday.

Thursday, July 15th for TMHA staff to attend training on HUD compliance regulations.
 

Back to Page 1