Key Impacts of the AHCIA Reintroduction

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The Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act (AHCIA) aims to strengthen and expand the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC), the federal government’s primary tool for promoting the development and preservation of affordable rental housing for low-income families. Since its original introduction in 2016, the AHCIA has earned broad bipartisan support for increasing housing production, reaching underserved populations, and improving program efficiency. A temporary 12.5% boost to Housing Credit allocations was enacted in 2018 but expired in 2021. The 2025 version of the AHCIA seeks to reinstate key provisions to maximize impact on affordable housing supply.

Although reintroduced in 2023, the AHCIA did not pass. A major change in the 2025 version is the inclusion of a Sense of Congress section in both the House and Senate bills, compared to its prior presence only in the Senate version. Over the years, Congress has enacted parts of the AHCIA through other legislation, including the Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act of 2024.

Why It Matters Now

Given rising housing costs, constrained supply, and increased post-pandemic demand, the timing of AHCIA’s reintroduction in 2025 makes it particularly relevant. The affordable housing industry is looking for policy shifts that can accelerate development as well as expand housing access. Before its reintroduction, the legislation was originally forecasted to finance more than 1.9 million affordable rental homes over 10 years.

The reintroduction of the AHCIA stems from a desire to address issues within the LIHTC program to ensure it remains effective in meeting the growing need for affordable housing. Some of the key reasons for the reintroduction include:

Impacts on the Affordable Housing Industry

  1. Increased Housing Production – AHCIA would boost the 9% LIHTC allocation by 50%, phased in two years. This would dramatically increase the number of affordable housing units that can be financed annually.
  2. Increased Developer Interest – Improved financial feasibility and predictability can bring more developers into the affordable housing space.
  3. Permanent 4% Floor – By setting a permanent 4% minimum credit rate (originally done temporarily under COVID relief), more bond-financed deals become viable.
  4. Deep Income Targeting – More flexibility to serve extremely low-income households without sacrificing project feasibility.
  5. Rural & Tribal Incentives – Provisions to encourage development in underserved rural and tribal communities.

How Housing Finance Agencies (HFAs) Would Be Impacted

  1. Greater Allocation Responsibility – With an increased credit cap, HFAs would oversee a larger pipeline of projects and tax credit allocations and therefore have a greater capacity to support developments nationwide.
  2. Greater Demand for Bond Volume Cap – The permanent 4% credit rate could increase demand for private activity bonds (PABs), which HFAs manage.
  3. New Compliance & Underwriting Guidelines – HFAs would need to adjust procedures to align with changes like deep income targeting and new basis boosts.
  4. Increased Administrative Load – More projects means more application reviews, monitoring, and compliance enforcement, which can lead to a greater administrative burden.

What to Watch for This Month

If AHCIA is gaining momentum or attached to a broader tax package, it’s crucial for stakeholders to understand its implications now, especially as states gear up for their 2025 LIHTC allocation plans.

ProLink Solutions remains dedicated to providing innovative technology solutions that streamline the management of 4% and 9% tax credit portfolios. By incorporating the latest regulatory requirements, adapting to evolving industry best practices, and prioritizing efficiency, we are committed to supporting the growth of LIHTC-funded housing projects.

Navigating the Challenges of Managing Tenant Waitlists at LIHTC Properties

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Effective collaboration between Housing Finance Agencies (HFAs), Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) property managers, and community-based organizations is crucial in ensuring that housing opportunities reach those who need them most. While HFAs oversee LIHTC properties at a high level, nonprofits are deeply engaged with tenant populations, such as veterans, single mothers, or individuals with disabilities. However, communication between these entities often falls short, creating significant challenges in tenant prioritization and placement.

The Communication Disconnect

HFAs are responsible for administering the overall waitlist for LIHTC properties, ensuring compliance with tax credit requirements, and managing property oversight. Nonprofits, on the other hand, are more directly involved with tenants, advocating for their needs and ensuring that vulnerable groups receive the attention and housing they require.

However, when units become available, the owner/agent typically reaches out to the next person on the waitlist without directly informing the nonprofit organizations that could advocate for prioritized tenants. This leads to misplacement of tenants—someone with lower priority on the waitlist may be placed in a unit that was meant for a more vulnerable population, such as a single mother or a veteran.

A study done by the Urban Institute highlights how this breakdown in communication impacts the efficiency of affordable housing programs and exacerbates the difficulties faced by specialized tenant groups.

Consequences of Poor Communication

The absence of timely and effective communication has serious consequences for both tenants and the organizations supporting them. This lack of communication can result in misaligned placements with tenants who are less suited for specialized units being placed in them, undermining the intent of LIHTC programs, which prioritize specific groups. Additionally, specialized units may remain unoccupied due to the failure to notify appropriate tenants. The affordability goal of the LIHTC program is then compromised, leading to a waste of valuable resources.

According to the National Low-Income Housing Coalition, ensuring that tenants are appropriately matched with units according to their needs can help reduce vacancy rates and improve the overall effectiveness of affordable housing programs.

These challenges highlight the need for strengthened partnerships between owner/agents, HFAs and nonprofit organizations to enhance the effectiveness of affordable housing programs. Better communication also significantly improves housing access and efficiency.

Best Practices for Improved Collaboration

To enhance communication and ensure timely placements, HFAs and nonprofits can:

  • Use Integrated Waitlist Systems: Share databases for real-time access and updates to waitlist information.
  • Establish Prioritization Protocols: Collaborate to define clear tenant prioritization criteria that align with regulatory requirements and community needs.
  • Assign Liaisons: Designate staff to facilitate communication between owner/agents, HFAs and nonprofits.
  • Provide Training: Offer joint sessions to ensure understanding of LIHTC regulations and tenant needs.

Conclusion

At ProLink, we’re working closely with our clients to optimize our platform and improve the management of waitlists, ensuring better communication between Housing Finance Agencies and nonprofits. We’re also exploring future solutions to further address waitlisting challenges and enhance collaboration, ultimately supporting the success of affordable housing programs.

Opinion on the New Administration’s Approach to Affordable Housing

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The inauguration of President Donald Trump marked a shift in the political landscape, bringing with it a wave of uncertainty that affected various sectors, including affordable housing. As with many policy areas, the approach to affordable housing under the new administration has raised concerns and posed questions for industry professionals and advocates. While the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program remains secure—a critical and bipartisan tool for affordable housing development—there are broader anxieties about how other key housing initiatives may fare under the Trump administration.

LIHTC As A Pillar of Affordable Housing

The LIHTC program, a primary source of affordable housing financing, enjoys longstanding bipartisan support. Historically, this program has been a cornerstone of affordable housing development across the United States. Regardless of political shifts, it’s widely expected that LIHTC will continue to be supported by the new administration, as it is a tool that has proven effective and crucial for tackling the nation’s housing crisis. This stability is vital for developers and investors who depend on the tax credit to fund new projects.

Bipartisan Support for Affordable Housing

Both Republicans and Democrats understand the critical need for affordable housing and its positive impact on communities. Despite changes in administration, this common ground ensures that affordable housing remains a priority. President Trump’s Secretary pick for the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Scott Turner, for instance, has expressed a clear commitment to addressing housing shortages by focusing on Opportunity Zones and bolstering investments in underdeveloped areas, which could potentially accelerate affordable housing development.

However, the Trump administration’s proposed cuts to federal housing budgets, including funding for HUD, heightened uncertainty about the future of housing-related support.

Potential Challenges for Other Programs

While LIHTC is expected to remain secure, the Trump administration’s policy focus on deregulation and scaling back government intervention in certain areas could present challenges for other housing programs. There are concerns that efforts to roll back Obama-era regulations aimed at promoting fair housing could weaken protections that support equitable housing access. Trump’s team has notably rolled back policies designed to address systemic housing inequities, which could affect low-income and minority communities’ access to housing.

Reaffirming the Relevance of Affordable Housing

Despite these potential challenges, the fundamental need for affordable housing remains unchanged. Even as other programs, such as renewable energy initiatives, may face funding cuts or policy changes, the essential nature of affordable housing will ensure its continued relevance. The Trump administration has made it clear that housing will continue to be a key area of focus, with strategies like the Opportunity Zones program, which encourages investment in distressed areas, possibly offering new pathways to address the shortage of affordable units.

 

In conclusion, while political changes may bring uncertainty to other housing-related programs, affordable housing remains a priority that transcends party lines. The LIHTC program’s stability and the ongoing bipartisan support for affordable housing are positive signs that, regardless of the administration, the goal of expanding affordable housing opportunities across the country will remain in focus.

 

Regulatory Updates from the Housing Credit Module at HFA Institute

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The National Council of State Housing Agencies (NCSHA) hosted its annual HFA Institute from January 12 to 17, 2025, in Washington, DC. This comprehensive event featured four program-specific modules, with the Housing Credit module taking place from January 14 to 16. During this module, many sessions were available that addressed everything from housing credit compliance and development to recent regulatory updates.

The implementation of HUD’s Housing Opportunity Through Modernization Act (HOTMA) and the National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate (NSPIRE) is bringing significant changes to the affordable housing landscape. In several discussions led by industry experts, key strategies for navigating these updates were outlined, emphasizing the importance of compliance and adaptability. These sessions offered actionable insights for housing professionals. Here’s a closer look at the highlights, challenges, and strategies for success in this evolving regulatory environment.

HOTMA Implementation Strategies

For a discussion on HOTMA implementation strategies, Jillian Toole, Senior Policy and Strategy Manager for the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, was joined by several key players in affordable housing compliance to discuss how to implement HOTMA at Multifamily housing sites. They also provided a breakdown between Required and Discretionary policies. With Asset Limitation, for example, it is required to deny admission if family has more than $103,200 in net family assets OR if they own a disqualifying piece of real property. However, choosing to enforce policy upon annual or initial recertification is will be discretionary under HOTMA.

One challenge of HOTMA implementation denoted by the panel is the large-scale revisions HUD Multifamily Housing sites must undertake for their Tenant Selection Plans and EIV Policies & Procedures. Additionally, new HOTMA guidance adds new provisions to compliance and management as well as changes prior guidance. Panelists also provided clarification on mandatory policies, such as asset limitations and de minimis errors. You can view the presentation materials here.

Visit the HUD website to stay up-to-date on the latest HOTMA changes.

Physical Inspections Under the NSPIRE Protocol

Susan Westbrook, Manager of Rental Assets at North Carolina Housing Finance Agency, led a discussion on the National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate (NSPIRE) featuring panelists from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development  (HUD), US Housing Consultants and Zeffert & Associates.

This session provided attendees a comprehensive understanding of the implementation timeline for NSPIRE and new scoring procedures. Panelists also reflected on NSPIRE one year in. Here are some highlights:

  • Out of the top 10 defects causing the largest score deductions, 6 are Life-Threatening. The largest is “Exposed electrical conductor” with a deduction of 14.73 points per 100 units inspected.
  • Out of the top 10 most commonly cited defects, 2 are Life-Threatening. The most common is “Smoke alarm is not installed where required” with an average defect count of 16.25 citations per 100 units inspected.
  • Electrical, Egress, and Fire Safety defects impacted NSPIRE scores more than other types of defects.

You can view the presentation materials here.

 

The Housing Credit module at HFAi provided an in-depth look into the evolving regulatory landscape of affordable housing. The discussions on HOTMA and NSPIRE underscored the critical need for housing professionals to stay informed and adaptable. By embracing these changes and implementing the strategies shared by industry experts, stakeholders can effectively navigate the complexities ahead, ensuring continued compliance and the provision of quality affordable housing. Staying engaged with ongoing regulatory updates and participating in future industry events will be essential for success in this dynamic environment.

Key Affordable Housing Industry Issues in 2025

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With 2025 right around the corner, the affordable housing sector continues to grapple with numerous challenges that impact developers, policymakers, and the communities they serve. From regulatory compliance to the efficient management of resources, the industry is at a pivotal point where innovative tools and solutions are not just beneficial but essential for sustainable growth and effectiveness. This post delves into some of the most pressing concerns facing the affordable housing industry and explores the value of specialized tools designed to mitigate these issues.

Regulatory Compliance and NSPIRE Requirements

Compliance with regulatory frameworks is a cornerstone of affordable housing projects. The National Standards for Property Inspection and Reporting Excellence (NSPIRE) has introduced stringent guidelines aimed at ensuring quality and accountability. Meeting these requirements can be resource-intensive, requiring meticulous documentation, regular inspections, and adherence to safety and maintenance standards.

Many software solutions can help to streamline the compliance process by automating documentation, scheduling inspections, and providing real-time tracking of compliance status. These tools not only reduce administrative burdens but also minimize the risk of non-compliance penalties, ensuring that projects remain on track and within legal parameters.

Efficient Waitlist Management

Managing waitlists for affordable housing units, especially for prioritized groups such as the elderly or veterans, poses significant challenges. Manual systems are prone to errors, delays in notifications, and difficulty in prioritizing applicants based on eligibility criteria. Housing finance agencies may also struggle to notify other organizations who are helping prioritized groups of when an affordable unit becomes available.

Developing uniform criteria for eligibility and prioritization can ensure fairness and transparency in the allocation process. Standardization can help with minimizing biases and discrepancies, ensuring that priority groups receive timely access to housing. Utilizing predictive analytics can also help anticipate demand fluctuations and adjust waitlist priorities accordingly. By analyzing trends and demographic data, housing authorities can make informed decisions to optimize resource allocation.

Construction Costs and Supply Chain Disruptions

Rising construction costs and supply chain disruptions have a direct impact on the feasibility and timelines of affordable housing projects. Fluctuations in material prices, labor shortages, and delays in procurement can lead to budget overruns and extended project durations.

Investing in training programs to address labor shortages can ensure a steady supply of skilled workers. Partnerships with vocational schools and community colleges can help build a robust labor pipeline. Streamlining regulatory processes can also help to reduce delays as well as associated costs.

Sustainability and Energy Efficiency

There is an increasing demand for affordable housing projects to incorporate sustainable and energy-efficient practices. Balancing environmental goals with cost constraints presents a significant challenge.

There are also numerous initiatives, such as the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF) programs and the Energy Efficiency Buildings Deduction, which aim to incentivize a more green approach to affordable housing development, with the goal of reaching net-zero emissions.

 

As the affordable housing industry moves towards 2025, addressing these critical concerns with the aid of specialized tools and processes becomes crucial. From ensuring regulatory compliance to optimizing financial operations and fostering community engagement, technology plays a pivotal role in overcoming the sector’s challenges. By leveraging these solutions, stakeholders can enhance the effectiveness, sustainability, and accessibility of affordable housing projects, and help make a meaningful impact on communities in need.

A Multi-Perspective View on Upcoming Affordable Housing Changes

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As we gather at AHF Live 2024 in Chicago, the affordable housing sector stands at a pivotal juncture. The recent election of Donald Trump for a second term brings a renewed focus on housing policies that will significantly influence investors, syndicators, and developers. This year’s conference agenda offers timely insights into navigating the evolving landscape.

Investor’s Perspective: Navigating Economic Policies and Market Dynamics

Investors in affordable housing are closely monitoring the economic policies of the incoming administration. President Trump’s proposed tax cuts and deregulation efforts aim to stimulate economic growth, which could lead to increased investment opportunities. However, these policies may also contribute to higher inflation and elevated mortgage rates, potentially impacting the affordability of housing projects. The National Association of Realtors estimates that the average rate on a 30-year mortgage will fluctuate between 5.5% and 6.5% during Trump’s second term.

At AHF Live 2024, sessions such as “Finance: Bond Financing Update” provide investors with strategies to mitigate interest rate risks and explore alternative financing mechanisms. Understanding these financial instruments is crucial for maintaining the viability of affordable housing investments in a potentially volatile economic environment.

Syndicator’s Perspective: Adapting to Policy Shifts and Funding Mechanisms

Syndicators play a vital role in structuring deals and securing capital for affordable housing projects. The Trump administration’s emphasis on deregulation and potential modifications to housing programs necessitate a proactive approach to deal structuring. The “Nuts and Bolts of Deal Structuring” workshop at AHF Live 2024 offers valuable insights into adapting to these policy shifts.

Additionally, the administration’s plans to utilize federal land for housing development present new opportunities and challenges. Syndicators must assess the feasibility of projects on federal land, considering factors such as location, infrastructure, and regulatory compliance. Engaging with sessions like “Developers’ Roundtable: Opportunities and Challenges” can provide syndicators with diverse perspectives on capitalizing on these emerging opportunities.

Developer’s Perspective: Embracing Innovation and Regulatory Changes

Developers are at the forefront of implementing affordable housing initiatives. The administration’s focus on reducing regulatory barriers aligns with developers’ goals of streamlining project approvals and reducing costs. However, the potential rollback of programs like Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) may impact funding and compliance requirements.

AHF Live 2024 addresses these concerns through sessions such as “What’s Ahead at HUD,” offering developers insights into anticipated policy changes and their implications. Furthermore, the conference’s emphasis on innovation is evident in sessions like “Cutting-Edge Innovations in Affordable Housing,” encouraging developers to adopt new technologies and methodologies to enhance project efficiency and sustainability.

Conclusion

The intersection of policy changes and market dynamics under Donald Trump’s second term presents both challenges and opportunities for stakeholders in the affordable housing sector. AHF Live 2024 serves as a crucial platform for investors, syndicators, and developers to gain insights, share strategies, and collaborate on solutions to advance affordable housing development in this evolving landscape.

2024 Election Outcome and the Impact on Affordable Housing

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The outcome of the 2024 U.S. presidential election will profoundly shape the affordable housing industry due to the contrasting priorities of the leading candidates. With rising home prices, rental costs, and a significant housing supply shortfall, housing affordability remains a key issue. Depending on who wins, the approach to addressing these issues will vary significantly and will influence federal funding, regulatory frameworks, and market incentives.

Democratic Approach (Kamala Harris)

If Kamala Harris and the Democrats win, their policies are expected to prioritize expanding affordable housing through a variety of measures:

  • Housing Supply: Harris has pledged to build 3 million new housing units over the next four years, along with expanding the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) to support affordable housing development. She also proposes a $40 billion fund to help local governments tackle housing shortages by addressing supply constraints and speeding up permitting processes. ​(RISMedia)
  • ​Homeownership: The Democrats are focusing on supporting first-time homebuyers through measures like a $25,000 down-payment assistance program and a $10,000 tax credit for first-time buyers​. (National Association of Home Builders)
  • Rental Market Regulation: Harris has proposed a nationwide cap on rent increases at 5% for corporate landlords and aims to ban algorithm-driven rent setting, which many believe leads to inflated rents.​ (National Mortgage News)

Republican Approach (Donald Trump)

A Republican victory, with Donald Trump and running mate J.D. Vance, would emphasize reducing regulations and encouraging private-sector solutions:

  • Regulatory Reductions: Trump has promised to cut what he sees as unnecessary regulations that raise construction costs. His administration would also aim to open portions of federal land for affordable housing development​.
  • Homeownership: Like Harris, Trump supports homeownership, but through tax incentives and by reducing inflation to lower mortgage rates. His focus is on easing market pressures by rolling back government interventions.​ (National Association of Home Builders)
  • Immigration and Housing Costs: Vance has argued that immigration policies have worsened housing affordability by increasing demand for homes in lower-income neighborhoods, making homeownership more difficult for U.S. citizens.​ (RISMedia)

If Democrats win, we could see a large-scale investment in new affordable housing units, increased support for first-time homebuyers, and stricter regulations on corporate landlords. These efforts would likely help lower housing costs and expand access to affordable housing. However, if Republicans win, the focus would likely shift toward deregulation, reducing federal involvement, and fostering private-sector solutions to increase housing supply. While this may lower costs for developers, it may not directly address affordability for low- and middle-income families as effectively.

Jennifer Schwartz, Director of Tax and Housing Advocacy at the National Council of State Housing Agencies (NCSHA), will be giving a keynote presentation during our annual virtual user conference, ProLink Technology Live 2024, next Monday at 11 a.m. EST. She will be addressing this matter as well and may have differing opinions on what we have provided above. If you would like to learn more and register for our conference, you can click here.

 

 

Making Connections with NCSHA’s Housing Credit Connect and Annual Conference

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The National Council of State Housing Agencies (NCSHA) hosted its Housing Credit Connect conference in Atlanta from June 10-13, 2024, where the industry gathered to discuss key challenges and opportunities within affordable housing. The discussions ranged from legislative updates to new innovations within housing credit allocation and compliance. As NCSHA’s Annual Conference approaches, scheduled for September 28 – October 1, 2024, in Phoenix, several of these critical topics will be revisited, offering attendees a chance to delve deeper into the issues that continue to shape the industry.

Key Topics from Housing Credit Connect and Their Continuation in Phoenix

Compliance Challenges and Strategies

Compliance with federal and state regulations remains a persistent challenge for housing agencies and developers. In Atlanta, experts discussed new compliance trends and shared strategies for staying ahead of regulatory changes, particularly in an era of increased scrutiny and tighter budgets. The Phoenix conference will revisit these topics, providing updated insights into best practices for compliance, including the use of new technologies to streamline reporting and monitoring processes.

During the session “Keeping Up with Multifamily Compliance Through Technology and Training”, taking place on Monday, September 30th, ProLink Solutions’ own Ryan Kim, VP of Professional Services, will join the panel in continuing the discussion around regulatory updates around the Housing Opportunity Through Modernization Act (HOTMA) and National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate (NSPIRE).

Innovative Financing and Development Strategies

Innovative financing mechanisms were a major focus in Atlanta, with sessions highlighting new approaches to leveraging private and public funds to support affordable housing development. In Phoenix, these discussions will continue, emphasizing the importance of creative financing in expanding the reach of housing credit programs. Topics range empowering women within housing finance to the process of leveraging state and local partnerships to locate more funding.

Sustainability and Green Building

Environmental sustainability in affordable housing was a key theme at Housing Credit Connect, with sessions exploring how green building practices can be integrated into housing credit projects. During Housing Credit Connect, Wendy Smith, Deputy Executive Director at Kentucky Housing Corporation, was joined by panelists during a session titled “Leveraging Energy Incentives in Affordable Housing” to discuss the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and its impact on energy efficiency and resiliency measures.

The upcoming Annual Conference will expand on these discussions, focusing on the long-term benefits of sustainable development practices and how they can be incentivized through housing credit programs. The conference will also explore the intersection of sustainability with equity, ensuring that environmentally friendly housing solutions are accessible to all income levels. Topics will be covered ranging from energy and water conservation to energy efficiency and resilience in affordable housing.

Data and Analytics in Housing

The role of data and analytics in improving housing outcomes was another critical topic in Atlanta. During Housing Credit Connect in Atlanta, Bettie Teasley, the Manager of Policy and Research at the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency, presented a session titled “Maximizing Outcomes with Data-Driven Policies”.

As housing agencies increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making, the Phoenix conference will continue to highlight how data can be used to optimize housing credit allocations, monitor program effectiveness, and ensure compliance. Sessions pertaining to this topic include “Bringing Data to Life: The Faces of Affordable Housing” and “The Horizon for Data and Analytics: Vision Setting and New Tools”.

 

For ProLink Solutions and other members within the affordable housing sector, these events are invaluable opportunities to stay informed, network with peers, and contribute to the dialogue shaping the future of housing policy and practice. By engaging with these recurring themes, attendees can expect to leave Phoenix with actionable insights and strategies that will help them navigate the complex terrain of affordable housing in the years to come​.

Industry Updates from Housing Credit Connect

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The National Council of State Housing Agencies (NCSHA)’s Housing Credit Connect is a chance for Housing Credit professionals from across the nation to network and participate in industry education provided by numerous affordable housing experts.

ProLink Solutions is proud to be a Platinum Sponsor for this year’s conference. Below are some highlights from this year’s event.

 

Keeping up with Compliance Technology

This session featured a panel which was hosted by Wendy Quakenbush, the Director of Multifamily Compliance at the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs.

Ryan Kim, VP of Professional Services at ProLink, was featured as a guest panelist for the session and was joined by Alex Melikan, Director of Investment Management at MRI Software/TCAM, and Mary Beth Snyder, Resident Screening Industry Principal at Yardi.

The panelists spoke of recent updates in affordable housing space including the Average Income Test (AIT) ruling, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)’s Housing Opportunity through Modernization Act (HOTMA) income and asset rules, and the NSPIRE inspection protocol, which was also published by HUD. During Ryan’s demonstration of the Procorem Tenant Portal’s recent enhancements made to support Average Income, Wendy Quakenbush commented, “our system for handling AIT is nowhere near as good as ProLink’s.”

The panelists also discussed the importance of incorporating artificial intelligence into business intelligence methods such as dashboards and analytics, which help streamline asset management in affordable housing.

 

Ryan Kim speaks about HOTMA during the Keeping Up with Compliance Technology panel at NCSHA’s Housing Credit Connect.

 

Application of the NSPIRE Protocol in Housing Credit Inspections

NCSHA also hosted a panel dedicated solely to the topic of NSPIRE, which is a hot button issue in affordable housing as of late. Panelists discussed NSPIRE, new scoring procedures, practical aspects of implementing the new standard, and common challenges properties typically encounter, as well as coordination with HUD’s physical inspection alignment initiative.

Issues discussed during the panel included how 25% of findings are related to solely smoke detectors, that landlords are often hearing the new standards are complicated and expensive, and how common on-site struggles tend to come from a lack of staff understanding on NSPIRE.

 

Conclusion

Overall, the conference highlighted the dynamic changes and ongoing challenges within the affordable housing industry, emphasizing the importance of technological advancements and continuous education. ProLink Solutions remains committed to supporting the industry through innovative solutions and active participation in pivotal discussions, demonstrating a dedication to advancing affordable housing compliance and management. We are proud to sponsor NCSHA and are looking forward to next year’s event.

Navigating Market Conditions in 2024

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In 2024, navigating the real estate market has become a formidable challenge. With interest rates soaring, traditional market-rate housing deals are stalling, leaving developers, investors, and bankers/lenders looking for viable alternatives. For market-rate housing, this translates into higher mortgage rates for buyers, decreased purchasing power, and an overall cooling of demand. For developers, the increased cost of financing projects means tighter profit margins and greater financial risk. As a result, many market-rate projects are being shelved or scaled back due to unfavorable economic conditions.

This shift in the market dynamics is increasingly steering attention toward affordable housing projects, which, despite their complexities, offer unique opportunities in the current economic climate. Many of these new affordable housing opportunities are possible through promising new affordable housing programs under consideration by the federal government

Legislative Proposals

The Housing Supply Fund Act was introduced by Senator Sherrod Brown to propose creating a fund to help community development financial institutions and nonprofit housing organizations expand affordable housing options, including converting commercial properties into affordable. Meanwhile the Affordable Housing Preservation and Protection Act would provide HUD with the authority to offer loans for renovating distressed HUD-assisted housing, ensuring these properties remain affordable and are improved.

Tax Credits and Assistance Programs play a crucial role in reducing the burden on affordable housing development. They help offset the costs associated with these projects, making them financially viable for developers and attractive for investors. Here are some of the options that are available:

  • Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC): The administration seeks to expand LIHTC to build or preserve 1.2 million more affordable rental units.
  • Neighborhood Homes Tax Credit: A new proposal aims to support the building or renovation of affordable homes in underserved neighborhoods.
  • Down Payment Assistance: Proposals include up to $25,000 for first-generation homebuyers, which would help about 400,000 families.

These incentives make affordable housing projects significantly more attractive to both lenders and developers. The financial benefits provided by programs such as LIHTC and various federal and state grants can effectively reduce the overall costs and risks associated with affordable housing development. By lowering the debt burden and providing more predictable returns, these programs mitigate the impact of high interest rates. Consequently, lenders are more willing to finance affordable housing projects, seeing them as lower-risk investments with guaranteed government support.

Similarly, developers are incentivized to pursue affordable housing deals, where subsidies and tax credits improve profitability and project feasibility, compared to the uncertain and costlier market-rate housing ventures in a high-interest environment. This strategic shift not only helps developers and lenders maintain their business momentum but also contributes to addressing the ongoing affordable housing shortage.