In this powerful episode of the 256 Investor Podcast, Antonio McGinnis, Executive Director of the Huntsville Housing Authority, catches up with JD on section 8 investing in Huntsville, AL. Tony grew up in public housing, played college basketball and pro ball overseas, and ultimately returned to his hometown to now lead the HHA. We cover the history of public housing in Huntsville and the housing choice voucher program, the benefits for both the investor and consumer, and advantages to working with the HHA. 

Whether you’re a real estate investor considering participation in Section 8, a landlord curious about the process, or simply someone who wants to understand the truth about affordable housing in Huntsville, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

Topics Covered with Timestamps

• [00:01:17] Growing Up in Huntsville Public Housing – Tony’s early life in Mason Court and Sparkman Homes

• [00:01:58] Basketball Journey – From Butler High School MVP to Texas A&M and pro basketball in Slovenia & Australia

• [00:06:00] Career Shift – From Boys & Girls Club leadership to Huntsville Housing Authority

• [00:08:49] Becoming Executive Director – Path to leading HHA and the organization’s 85-year legacy

• [00:09:50] Public Housing in Numbers – Units, Section 8 vouchers, and overwhelming demand

• [00:10:22] Understanding Section 8 – Landlord rights, inspections, myths, and responsibilities

• [00:13:33] Dispelling Myths – Tenants do work; landlords retain full screening control

• [00:17:04] Who Qualifies for Housing – AMI ranges, working families, and income-based assistance

• [00:20:24] Path to Homeownership – Turning vouchers into mortgages and ownership opportunities

• [00:21:13] Landlord-Tenant Relationships – Building partnerships and accountability on both sides

• [00:22:11] Program Strengths – Why Huntsville’s Housing Authority is high-performing

• [00:23:42] Transparency & Community Engagement – Annual meetings, open communication, and dispelling stigma