Section 8 investing in Huntsville: In this episode of the 256 Investor Podcast, Property Manager Tyler McKinney shares his  thoughts and ideas with JD on Section 8 investing alongside the Huntsville Housing Authority. Gain an understanding of the processes, benefits, strategies, disadvantages and opportunities with this complex and often misunderstood form of real estate investing. 

Tyler McKinney, Realtor and Property Manager at Holloway and Associates, shares his journey from Kansas City to Huntsville, how his Oakwood University roots shaped his career, and why he believes the Section 8 (Housing Choice Voucher) program can be a smart strategy for investors. Listeners will learn the pros, cons, myths, and practical steps of working with the Huntsville Housing Authority, from guaranteed rent to inspection requirements.

Whether you’re a local investor or exploring opportunities from out-of-state, this episode delivers valuable insights into how Section 8 works, what makes Huntsville unique, and how property managers like Tyler help ensure compliance and profitability.

Topics Covered with Timestamps

• 01:16 – Tyler’s Background: From Kansas City to Oakwood University

• 02:10 – Discovering Real Estate Through Internships & Property Management

• 03:24 – Specializing in Section 8 Properties

• 04:03 – Holloway and Associates’ Role in Huntsville’s Section 8 Market

• 04:30 – What Section 8 Is & Why It Benefits Investors

• 05:28 – Long-Term Tenants & Stability in Section 8 Rentals

• 06:23 – Busting Myths About Section 8 Renters

• 07:32 – Double Vetting Process: Landlords + Housing Authority Screening

• 08:29 – Inspections: Pros and Cons for Investors

• 10:16 – Annual Inspections & Required Repairs

• 11:01 – Lease Terms, Market Rent, and Security Deposits

• 13:55 – Timelines: Renewal Notices & Rent Increases

• 14:40 – Getting a Property Approved for Section 8

• 15:52 – Why Huntsville Holds Investors to Higher Standards

• 16:39 – Timing Issues & the Importance of Property Managers

• 18:20 – Why Out-of-State Investors Need Local Representation

• 19:18 – Common Misconceptions: Easy Money vs. Actual Work

• 20:13 – Communication Challenges: Snail Mail vs. Online Portal

• 21:20 – Payment Process: ACH vs. Checks

• 21:50 – Market Advantage: Section 8 Pays Above Fair Market Value

• 22:57 – Pricing Strategy for Investors

• 23:28 – Handling Natural Disasters & Major Repairs

• 25:03 – Why Section 8 Works Like Any Other Rental (with Extra Steps)

• 25:53 – Final Thoughts: Section 8 as a Smart Investment Strategy