From concept to financing, construction to occupancy, every phase is a step in our mission to make affordable housing a reality for everyone in the Northwest. Take a close look at our process and meet the team that anticipates ‘unexpected,’ asks questions, and figures it out.
Project feasibility analysis, capacity studies, funding opportunity assessment are all completed well before breaking ground. Community success that's long-term starts early and with a lot of questions.
Pre-development allows us to see the community needs, land characteristics, and financing opportunities. We apply our unique lens to find the potential path for the project. If it's not clear, we make our own.
Our government and nonprofit backgrounds give us a unique understanding, perspective and visibility into affordable housing financing.
We are experienced working with dozens of funding sources, both public and private, and benefit from deep relationships with lenders, investors, foundations and government organizations. We are compelled to be good stewards of public and private resources, treating our funders as true partners for the long-term.
We ask a lot of questions. How do we reduce utility bills for residents? Will children who live here prefer a soccer field or a basketball hoop? In the eyes of our neighbors, how will this building look? Is this sink deep enough? Should we ditch the carpet?
Our team of project professionals—engineers, architects, designers and more —are focused on producing designs that resident and communities need. We ask questions early which mean we can work with municipalities big and small to get permits fast.
Affordable housing built to last is accomplished through strong relationships, proactive issue management, and a commitment to quality. It's a process that provides well-built communities that support the needs of residents.
Our construction management team works shoulder to shoulder with general contractors, municipalities, consultants, and industry professionals to complete projects on time and on budget.
Total Development Cost Of Home First Supported Projects
TOTAL UNIQUE FUNDING SECURED FOR DEVELOPMENTS
Grants, competitive funding awards, LIHTC equity and other funding that complements or replaces conventional debt.
The Local Innovation and Fast Track (LIFT) Housing Program is a State funding source that provides gap funding for developments that build for low-income families and individuals in Oregon, with a focus on those that emphasize efficiency and community partnerships.
The LIHTC program is administered by Oregon Housing and Community Services, prodiving tax credits to investors in exchange for equity that funds the construction of affordable rental housing. Home First typically utilizes 4% LIHTC.
Other funds include competitive grants and loans available for affordable housing development such as: Meyer Memorial Trust grants, METRO Transit Oriented Development grants, OHCS VGHAP grants, METRO Bond, CDBG, Portland Housing Bureau CET, etc.
