Sumas Square

Because it participates in the USDA Section 515 Rural Rental Housing program, Sumas Square is likely located in a rural community and may be one of only a few rental housing choices in the area. To qualify for residency in a Section 515 property, you must earn 80% or less of Area Median Income (AMI). Since this property also participates in USDA's Section 521 Rental Assistance program, residents who earn 50% of the AMI or less may qualify for a subsidy that limits your rent payment to 30% of your income. Some Section 521 properties do not offer rent subsidies to all of the units, so it is possible a person earning 50% or less of the AMI is placed on a subsidy waiting list. These tenants would have to pay the full rent until their name comes up on the list. Section 515 properties often have smaller units, fewer amenities, and are in worse physical condition than other similar properties. USDA has struggled over the years to keep the physical condition of Section 515 properties in good standing due to budget constraints. These properties are almost always owned and managed by private/corporate owners or nonprofits. If you live in a rural area and need help paying your rent, this property may be good for you. Since this property participates in the RD515 program, the property is required to accept Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers.

~ Dave Layfield, Founder of Affordable Housing Online