Be aware Proposal 195 which is being introduced to create a Marion County Indiana landlord registry. Landlords have to re-resister themselves on an annual basis as a landlord. The reason given for this registry is that many properties in disrepair and vacant are owned by investors. About 50% or more of them are owned by owner occupants who no longer can pay for their mortgage.

The proposal which may have a wider implication on the rental market is Proposal 215. It will amend an existing Human Relations ordinance and will disallow landlords to no longer screen potential tenants by the source of their income. This includes the Federal Section 8 subsidies that individuals receive form the Federal government, even though participation for landlords per the Federal Section 8 guidelines is VOUNTARYfor landlords.

With Proposal 215, the existing Marion County Human Relations ordinance would make it illegal for landlords to decline housing to a section 8 tenant once it is passed.

What would the mean to landlords the have rental properties in Marion County, Indiana when Proposal 215 is passed and signed into law?

Now, let me throw in that I am not an attorney and this is not to be taken as legal advice. You should still seek out the advice of an attorney on this matter when you have questions.

I my personal opinion, as a real estate professional, the way I read the Marion County 215 Proposal, you as a landlord no longer have the option voluntarily to participate in the section 8 housing voucher program. When you offer your unit for rent and a Section 8 renter wants to rent your property, you will no longer be able to turn them down merely on the basis of them having a Section 8 voucher.

When you have questions about these proposals or other things that affect rental investment in Central Indiana feel free to contact the Settles Team.