(IDAHO FALLS) Property owners, managers, landlords, and those involved in real estate in Eastern Idaho are encouraged to attend a free landlord workshop hosted by Idaho Housing and Finance Association. The workshop, which will include information on fair housing and the Section 8 rental assistance program, will be held from 3 to 5:30 p.m. Thursday, July 31 in the Idaho Falls Public Library room A&B (located at the south entrance of the library).

“Zoe Ann Olson and Jessica Cahoon of Idaho Legal Aid will present information on ‘Fair Housing Compliance.’” said Craig Stoddard, IHFA Idaho Falls Branch Office Supervisor. “I encourage landlords and other housing professionals in the area to attend this informational workshop.”

Stoddard will also discuss housingidaho.com; a new, free statewide listing service for rental housing. This bilingual, fully ADA-compliant site efficiently links tenants and landlords throughout the state. Additionally, Stoddard will be available to discuss the Section 8 program and answer questions for property owners and managers. Seating for this workshop is limited, and those planning to attend must call to reserve space by contacting IHFA’s Idaho Falls branch office at (208) 522-6002 or toll-free (866) 684-3756.

IHFA administers Section 8 Rental Assistance on behalf of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). To be eligible for rental assistance, households must apply to a waiting list and qualify under HUD income limits. If eligible, the household would pay approximately 30 percent of their adjusted gross monthly income for rent and utilities. In 2007, IHFA’s branch offices administered nearly $12 million in rental assistance. Approximately 3,500 eligible families benefitted from this investment.

IHFA’s four branch offices, located in Twin Falls, Coeur d’Alene, Lewiston, and Idaho Falls, administer the Section 8 program and conduct landlord workshops regularly.

The Idaho Housing and Finance Association, a financial services and housing organization, provides funding for affordable housing in Idaho communities where they are most needed and when it is economically feasible. IHFA uses no state funds or state employees to support its operations. For more information, visit our Web site at www.ihfa.org.