FORT MYERS, Fla. — The Housing Authority landlord participation incentive is for property owners interested in maximizing their returns by partnering with the Housing Authority of the City of Fort Myers (HACFM) Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8).
Thanks to funding through the CARES Act, HACFM has launched a new incentive program for property owners called “HACFM Shares” While recognizing the added difficulties of making rental units available for HCV families during stay-at-home orders and social distancing practices, the new program aims to increase owner’s participation in the HCV Program.
A maximum of $2500 can be paid directly to property owners upon successful execution of a new HAP contract beginning on or after Nov. 1. A $500 signing bonus (up to five additional units) for landlords participating in the Section 8 program.
As of Nov. 1, landlords will receive a $500 signing bonus on any new units approved with a Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) contract.
This incentive, subsidized with Federal Cares Act funding, is specifically for Lee, Collier, and Highland county landlords who make their properties available to voucher holders. The one-time per new unit $500 incentive will be available until funds are exhausted.
“With the current spotlight being on homelessness in our city, this new incentive is to strongly encourage landlords and owners of residential properties to open their doors to our voucher participants. With yearly inspections, guaranteed rents, and providing community support, it is a win-win for everyone,” says Renee Gray, Director of the Housing Choice Voucher Program for the Housing Authority.
Information sessions about this cash incentive will take place on Dec. 10 and 17 at the Housing Authority of the City of Fort Myers, 4224 Renaissance Preserve Way, at 5 pm. Registration is mandatory and space for each meeting is limited due to COVID-19 restrictions. Temperatures will be checked, and masks are required.
The event will also be offered online.
To register, email Thea D. Parker, Housing Specialist/Landlord Liaison, at theap@hacfm.org or call 239-344-3232.
