The wonderful non-profit publication Shelterforce has once again performed a real service, this time by providing a multi-part, accessible guide to the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program, warts and all.
This insightful piece brings to light the obscure ways “affordable” housing is justified. Let’s see how confusing we can make it so people don’t look behind the curtain.
“ But LIHTC rents are usually calculated as affordable for tenants who earn 50-60% of the area median income. That justifies a rent bill that is far outside the range of those most in need, generally summarized as people living at 30% of the area median income or lower.”
That being said, I’d be interested to see an analysis of different levels of housing assistance. Let’s look from top to bottom. We definitely need supports built in, and expanded, on the lower levels. And it would be wise not to make those supports vulnerable to the cruel whims of policymakers. Utopia, I know.
I have been looking for this type of analysis of the LIHTC program. I look forward to reading it. This became apparent to me several years ago. But the average person doesn't know anything about affordable housing. Maybe less than nothing because they believe so many things that are wrong.
This insightful piece brings to light the obscure ways “affordable” housing is justified. Let’s see how confusing we can make it so people don’t look behind the curtain.
“ But LIHTC rents are usually calculated as affordable for tenants who earn 50-60% of the area median income. That justifies a rent bill that is far outside the range of those most in need, generally summarized as people living at 30% of the area median income or lower.”
That being said, I’d be interested to see an analysis of different levels of housing assistance. Let’s look from top to bottom. We definitely need supports built in, and expanded, on the lower levels. And it would be wise not to make those supports vulnerable to the cruel whims of policymakers. Utopia, I know.
I have been looking for this type of analysis of the LIHTC program. I look forward to reading it. This became apparent to me several years ago. But the average person doesn't know anything about affordable housing. Maybe less than nothing because they believe so many things that are wrong.