Posted in Apartment Living and Rental on February 9, 2010
GEORGIA APARTMENT RENTAL OPPORTUNITIES
When you begin searching for an apartment to rent in Georgia, having a clear picture of where you want to live, what type of apartment you want to rent, when you need to move and how much you can afford to spend will save time, frustration and money.
From the number of apartment rental websites you can find on the Internet, you might get the impression that renting a privately owned apartment is your only option; however there are other ways you can find your new home.
General Information on Apartment Rentals in Georgia
Finding a rental apartment or house in Georgia is a lot simpler if you start with accurate information. There are different requirements for each type of rental apartment, i.e. income level, credit rating, etc. To get the facts on Georgia rental apartments and make the best decision on how to move to your new home, you can learn more about the programs and services that are available when you visit http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/hcc/hcs.cfm?webListAction=search&searchstate=GA
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UNDERSTANDING GEORGIA RENTAL APARTMENT TYPES
Privately Owned Subsidized Housing
The Housing and Urban Development Agency (HUD) provides incentives that assist apartment owners in Georgia to offer reduced rents to tenants. You can get more information and search for a subsidized apartment at the HUD website located at: http://www.hud.gov/apps/section8/step2.cfm?state=GA%2CGeorgia. To get an application you will have to visit the management office of each apartment building that interests you.
Public Housing
If you are on a tight budget, you can find an affordable rental apartment in Georgia that is suitable for low-income families, the elderly and persons with disabilities. Applications are through the Public Housing Authority (PHA) where you want to live.
Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section
There are many Section 8 apartment rentals in Georgia. Using this program you can find a Section 8 rental apartment and then use the voucher to pay for all or part of the rent. Applications are available at the Public Housing Authority. For a listing of the Public Housing Authorities in Georgia, visit http://www.hud.gov/offices/pih/pha/contacts/states/ga.cfm. Be aware that there are waiting lists, so you may want to apply at more than one PHA. Your PHA can also give you a list of locations at which your voucher can be used.
Georgia Apartment Rental Laws – Your Rights as a Tenant
When you live in an apartment, you have both rights and responsibilities. Be sure you know what’s expected of you – and what you can expect in return. Landlord/Tenant laws are different in every state, so be sure to understand the laws in Georgia. HUD has prepared a booklet that explains your rights as a tenant. You can find this PDF document at: http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/mfh/gendocs/mfhrrr.pdf
Housing Discrimination
Housing discrimination based on your race, color, national origin, religion, sex, family status, or disability is illegal by federal law. If you have been trying to buy or rent a home or apartment and you believe your rights have been violated, you can file a fair housing complaint. The form can be found here: http://www.hud.gov/complaints/housediscrim.cfm
By: Alexa Whiteman
About the Author:
Alexa Whiteman is a contributor of rental related information sites and currently working on rent apartments and homes in Georgia
