Confessions of a Section 8 Landlord

by Sara Aviles

"Confessions of a Section 8 Landlord" is a candid account of the challenges and rewards of managing low-income housing. This gripping collection of stories exposes the raw reality of self-managing a twelve-unit apartment complex in one of America’s most dangerous cities. With a sense of humor and a touch of horror, the author recounts their experience with tenants who go to great lengths to save on rent, run-ins with the local gang leaders, and multiple squatters who turn the property into their own. Through these captivating tales, the author exposes many of the challenges of investing in low-income housing while sharing lessons learned from their own mistakes. Although the stories are not for the faith-heart, the author’s account of their experiences will leave readers feeling both entertained and informed. The book is a must-read for anyone looking to invest in low-income housing. While it might not be an easy road, the author’s story proves that the rewards can be immense. “ Confessions of a Section 8 Landlord” offers a thought-provoking perspective on the complexities of managing affordable housing, while providing valuable insights into the world of low-income housing.

110 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 17, 2023

About the author

Sara Aviles is a full-time real estate investor and agent who has a passion for helping families achieve financial freedom through the establishing passive income streams. In writing “Confessions of a Section 8 Landlord,” Sara collaborated with various housing advocacy groups in an effort to address the lack of low-income housing available, and assist in creating better pathways to permanent housing solutions. With her extensive experience and knowledge of the industry, Sara is dedicated to helping others achieve success in real estate investing. She believes that with the right tools and guidance anyone can achieve financial freedom through real estate.

Reviews

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Confessions of a Section 8 Landlord, Sara Aviles, a young and ambitious entrepreneur, articulates the gritty realities of achieving financial independence via real estate. Despite her initial lack of experience, Aviles illustrates a trajectory marked by determination and tenacity, grappling with managing a 12-unit apartment complex in the face of multifaceted challenges, including plumbing issues, electrical faults, and potential legal predicaments. Alongside her husband, Aviles confronted these issues head-on, improving both the infrastructure and the tenant experience in the building.

The text is far from a catalog of hardships; instead, Aviles's account is imbued with captivating, engaging, and educational narratives. Particularly noteworthy are the episodes involving Eileen, the live-in caretaker, that underscore the richness and complexity of life within an apartment complex. Confessions of a Section 8 Landlord offers a vivid tableau of tenant experiences, the implications of decision-making on a macro and micro level, and an education in problem resolution.

Despite the book not being a formal guide to property management, the wealth of practical knowledge Aviles delivers makes it an invaluable resource. The narratives woven throughout the book provide unparalleled insight into the landlord experience and the myriad challenges tenants can face. Aviles's journey attests to the truth that the road to success is often paved with significant effort, creative problem-solving, and an investment of time.

Rather than simply highlighting success and positivity, Confessions of a Section 8 Landlord is a refreshing exploration of real estate's human side, emphasizing collaborative relationships. This unvarnished look at the world of real estate renders the book an essential read for those aspiring to enter the field, offering a realistic perspective on the rewards and demands of the profession. Aviles has penned a book of substantial value to anyone interested in real estate.

[Julian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Confessions of a Section 8 Landlord is a raw, eye-opening, and often darkly humorous look at the realities of managing low-income housing. Sara Aviles pulls no punches, sharing firsthand stories that are equal parts shocking, informative, and entertaining. Blending hard-earned lessons with candid storytelling, this book offers valuable insight for real estate investors while exposing the human, financial, and emotional challenges behind affordable housing. A compelling read for anyone curious about the realities beyond the numbers.

[Umran Nayani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank God I haven't had to go through such a grind!

The book is a testament to the fortitude of the investors to see through their investments to exit. Def learned a lot & I am grateful for my own experience compared to what the Author went through. I was rooting for the Author throughout. Def pick this up before making your first real estate purchase.

[Beverley Turnquest · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gifted

Purchased for a new property owner as a gift based on a referral. The recipient appreciate and said from reading already, that is what has been read this far, it s a value read with lots to learn and how to navigate

[Brett Philips · Rating 5 out of 5]

crazy stories

Being a landlord is a tuff gig. If your thinking about becoming a landlord or buying an Airbnb, read this book first. Great stories, enjoy!

[Marilyn Benner Sowyak · Rating 5 out of 5]

educational

I read with interest. Having worked in management at a homeless shelter organization I could relate to a lot in the book.

[Cassie Gallegos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Insightful, honest, and helpful

I appreciated the authors candor in their mistakes, remedies, and what they would do differently. As a young, sole proprietor investor currently I appreciated the insight without having to suffer myself and this book has potentially saved me a lot of stress and also inspired me to push further.