Anyone have knowledge of Section 8 in AZ? (Tucson, Glendale: relocating, real estate)

[StartToday]

Hi,

I have section 8 in Chicago and would like to relocate to AZ. I earned my Master in Education (not teaching) in March 08 and am looking for a better paying job ($50,000+). I anticipate staying on section 8 for at least 12 - 24 more months depending on how quickly I find employment. In the mean time I need information on renting a house in AZ.

I haven't decided on an area yet but would like some input. I am looking for a safe, family oriented place. I want some where that my kids (girl, 3 and boy, 8) can go outside and ride their bikes, play with the other kids in the community and/or walk to the neighborhood park with fearing for their safety. I want a friendly community with good schooling. (Think Gilmore Girls... if you have ever seen this show. I like the ambiance of that small community)

I have read through a lot of the post about AZ and it sounds like Peoria, Glendale, Gilbert, or Avondale are the safest, most family friendly areas. I like 80 -90 degree weather. Tucson?

My goal is to buy a home within 5 years.

So given this situation and the fact that I have section 8 voucher right now what area is best. I found a lot of houses on Craigslist that accepts section 8 but they are all over the map. I did a little research and think for a 3 bedroom voucher in Peoria would be a little over $1300. Is this right?

Please respond with useful information only. I am not looking for any debates about the section 8 program and it's validity. I am very greatful for the program and glad that I was able to finish school, work, and afford a decent place for my family. I hate Chicago and the snow so I want to move to AZ.

Thanks for all your help. If anyone have section 8 in AZ please give me some input. I have never been there but we plan on visiting for 2 week in June, July and August to get a feel for which area is best.

[Great Joy]

What is section 8? I've seen it mentioned a few times from CA people considering relocating to AZ, but didn't know it existed in IL too. Is it all over the country? And, again, what exactly is it?

[Puddy4LyF]

Government subsidized housing

See: U.S. Housing Act of 1937

[Great Joy]

Thanks. I'm surprised I haven't heard of it before I started participating in this website. It's not like I'm a young 20 or 30 something anymore; although I wish I were. And, we've lived in quite a few different states across the US. I wonder if it's a govt program that is just being utilized more. Maybe we should all take advantage of the program given the current real estate fiasco. Afterall, we'll take $1300 a month if the govt is so easily handing the money out.

StartToday, I sincerely apologize because I truly do not want to hurt the direction of your thread, but I wish we could have that $$ too given the current housing situation. Luckily, my husband has a good job, but it is harder now with the cost of things going up. That money would be a blessing to many people.

[sablebaby]

The section 8 in Chicago must be very lenient or something. I just read your other thread about having a class A RV to store.

Many of my clients (mentally ill) are on section 8. In the past, the rental homes and apts were not in the greatest areas, but now with the market the way it is you will find many more options in better areas. I'm not quite sure what info you want from us? There are listings in the newspaper and such and the ads will say sect 8 approved.

[1phwalls]

You should try the hud website since it is their program Homes and Communities - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) You should also talk to the office that gave you your voucher about a transfer. I know a girl who transfered hers from New York to Ohio. This eliminated the waiting period for her, which can be very lengthy. When I visited back in 2006 someone told me the wait was two years. But, since you have a masters degree you should send out resumes and find a job before you move. This would eliminate your need for section 8. Note: I am not knocking section 8 - I'm a social worker.

[StartToday]

[quote=sablebaby;3777883]The section 8 in Chicago must be very lenient or something. I just read your other thread about having a class A RV to store.

I guess you also feel that lower income people should not have a car at all? We have a 1978 class A RV that was cheaper than our car that we purchased with another family member. (not that that is any of your business!) We bought it from a wealth retired State Trooper who bought it new and wanted to up grade in 2006. If you know how to find the deals you can acquire most things.

My question is what area should I focus on to move. In Chicago a lot of place that advertise that they accept Section 8 is not the best location for kids or adults for that matter.

[StartToday]

[quote=Great Joy;3777313] Afterall, we'll take $1300 a month if the govt is so easily handing the money out.


If you think you can qualify then you should apply. The monthly amount for a 3 bedroom in Peoria is a little over $1200. But your income have to be extremely low.

[StartToday]

Originally Posted by 1phwalls

since you have a masters degree you should send out resumes and find a job before you move. This would eliminate your need for section 8. Note: I am not knocking section 8 - I'm a social worker.

I currently work in social service field as well and only make $30,000 with 2 kids and a disabled husband we are still low income.

Like I said in the original post I am looking for a job paying $50,000+ but in the mean time I still have the assistance until I am blessed with a higher paying job. Besides I think section 8 give participants 6 months to "try out the new job" before they close your file so I am weighing all of my options.

What I'm trying to find out is what area should I move to that offer a family oriented neighborhood. From what I've read AZ have a lot of jobs in the medical field and social service field so I'm certain I will get a job just not sure if it will move me into a new tax bracket.

[sablebaby]

[quote=StartToday;3778466]

Originally Posted by sablebaby

The section 8 in Chicago must be very lenient or something. I just read your other thread about having a class A RV to store.

I guess you also feel that lower income people should not have a car at all? We have a 1978 class A RV that was cheaper than our car that we purchased with another family member. (not that that is any of your business!) We bought it from a wealth retired State Trooper who bought it new and wanted to up grade in 2006. If you know how to find the deals you can acquire most things.

My question is what area should I focus on to move. In Chicago a lot of place that advertise that they accept Section 8 is not the best location for kids or adults for that matter.

Not what I'm saying at all. I just found it odd that you would have an RV and willing to pay $350 per month to store and also on Section 8 (so it sounds like it's not your main mode of transportation). It's just not what I'm familiar with with the clients that I have who qualify for it.

Have you been able to find jobs that pay $50k+ out here? What kinds of positions are you looking for? You say you currently work in the social service field which doesn't pay well out here either, even with an Master's degree. I'm just curious what other things you are finding.