For Public Housing Authorities
Affordable housing offers lots of opportunities for investors to obtain tax credits, tax-exempt financing, and other economic benefits. However these opportunities require reporting and regulatory requirements that must be followed or else the benefits of investing are forfeited. AHS maintains relationships with affordable housing affiliated companies that help us provide timely due diligence through every step of the process.
LIHTC Applications
Financing housing using low-income housing tax credits (LIHTC) has proven to be one of the most effective financing tools for creating quality, affordable housing in communities. Our experience with the affordable housing market allows AHS to walk you through the application process step by step and ensure your application is complete, accurate, and on time.
Utility Allowance Calculations
These must be made periodically as required by HUD. AHS gives Utility Calculations based on the physical characteristics of the property and can determine tenant paid Utility Allowance amounts. Utility allowances do not typically account for property-specific energy efficiency, which can prohibit the use of more energy efficient means since owners may not be able to recoup the upfront investment. When properly implemented, new methods of calculating utility allowances can improve both the energy/water efficiency and financial performance of affordable housing properties, without increasing the cost burden of tenants.
Section 504 Assessment and Transition Plans
A requirement of HUD, the Section 504 Assessment and Transition Plan describes how the Public Housing Authority will ensure its facilities, services, programs, and activities are accessible. The Public Housing Authority must keep it on file at all times.
Market Studies
Market studies help identify an area's potential for affordable housing. Conclusions are based on an analysis of the existing and projected supply and demand of affordable housing. Market studies are valuable in determining approaches and trends that will affect affordable housing investments.
Conversion, Demolition and Disposition Evaluations and Applications
We provide an evaluation to determine the most cost effective use for older properties justification for this use. If needed, AHS can also oversee construction bids for renovations and demolitions.
Public Housing Viability Analysis
A review and analysis affordable housing opportunities based on existing affordable housing, development options, and local market circumstances to determine thresholds and targets for affordable housing provision.
Energy Reduction Investigations and Strategies
Although energy efficiency is most desired, sometimes it is not cost effective to implement all energy efficient means in a project. AHS provides an evaluation of existing energy saving options, the costs and steps for implementation, and an evaluation of their return on investment.
Energy Grant and Loan Applications
Many states, communities, and the federal government offer grants and loans for affordable housing developments. HAS helps prepare competitive grant and load applications to obtain those monies and offset the development costs of affordable housing projects.
LEED Submissions and Consulting
A home is not affordable if it is not energy efficient and durable. LEED is an internationally recognized green building certification and rating system that outlines buildings as environmentally responsible. LEED-rated homes benefit residents directly because the LEED Rating System incorporates prerequisites related to occupant health and well-being. The mandatory energy-related prerequisites ensure at least 20-30% energy savings (relative to the nation energy code).
Green Communities Submissions and Consulting
Green Communities criteria involves aligning LEED energy efficient buildings with a community-based approach to affordable housing. Meeting Green Communities initiatives allow developers to qualify for grants and loans available from the federal government.
Energy Star Consulting
Energy Star qualified homes use 20-30% less energy than non Energy Star qualified homes. Homes meeting these evaluation criteria have high performance windows, efficient appliances, great insulation, and efficient heating and cooling mechanisms. AHS provides the design components to achieve Energy Star qualifications for affordable housing developers needing the status for grant, loan, and tax credit applications.
Grant Applications and Administration
Grants fund a wide range of affordable housing properties. The applications process can be overwhelming and tedious. AHS understand the competitive nature of the grant approval process and assists with an effective, well-written grant application based on our understanding of the affordable housing market. Once approved, AHS helps with grant administration by overseeing that guidelines and rules are met during all phases of the project.
Project Based Section 8 Conversion to Market or other Affordable Housing
Since the 1990's many Section 8 properties contract restrictions have come to an end. These projects can now be converted to private sector or affordable housing properties. AHS assists with the conversion of these properties and help evaluate alternatives for continued housing options.
ARRA Compliant PNA Services
Define a property's value and the approximate cost of repairs or investment needs of the property. HUD approved and ARRA compliant.
Construction Administration
3rd Party Review. Our firm performs construction administration services and specializes in 3rd party evaluations for financial institutions.