As the U.S. is facing a shortage of over seven million affordable rental homes for extremely low-income renters, and more than 320,000 homes have affordability restrictions expiring in the next five years, advocating for the need for affordable housing has never been greater. Today, housing agencies are exploring various preservation options, from purchasing Naturally Occurring Affordable Housing (NOAH) properties to accepting donated buildings, engaging in green construction, or participating in the latest tax credit programs.

No matter what route your agency may go down to acquire and rehab existing affordable housing, we’ve rounded up three preservation resources that you should add to your toolbox. The best part is they’re available to agencies at no cost!

The insurance industry has spotlighted the rise of external fraud, and rightfully so, as cybersecurity incidents continue impacting organizations at an alarming rate. But incidents of internal fraud—a dishonest or fraudulent act committed by one or more employees—remain a constant threat to housing organizations.

Housing organizations that have been deferring maintenance during the pandemic should start making plans to safely address outstanding work orders to avoid potentially costly housekeeping issues.   

During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, Real Estate Assessment Center (REAC) physical inspections were paused for health and safety reasons. REAC inspections have since resumed, so whether you're new to public housing or haven't dealt with a REAC inspection since the pre-pandemic days, it's the perfect time for a refresher on the topic. 

Marianne Krager, an associate trainer with Nan McKay and Associates (NMA), sits at a desk covered in black felt as she dutifully prepares for a long day’s work. It’s early morning, and there’s a sense of calm about Krager, even with a formation of cameras aimed at her. She’s clearly at ease about the task at hand.

While vandalism incidents may seem trivial compared to violent crime, they still come at a potentially high cost to affordable housing organizations. Repeated vandalism incidents can harm an organization’s reputation and could lead to more serious crimes.

HAI Group is a proud sponsor of the NHPD, a database that helps people better understand the stock of publicly supported housing in their community and preserve affordable housing options for low-income households. Kelly McElwain, MPP, tells us more about this vital tool.

Affordable housing organizations rehabilitating aging residential properties or building new developments are exposed to new risks, including the potential for fire on a construction site.

For the second straight year, HAI Group donated $5,000 to Connecticut Foodshare as part of Bank of America’s 23^rd annual Turkey Tuesday event.

Public and affordable housing organizations strive to fill vacancies as quickly as possible to fulfill community housing needs and avoid loss of rental income, but it's not always feasible.