PAHC - Activities - Affordable Housing Development

Creating housing opportunities to build
a stronger, more diverse community.

Affordable Housing Development

The Palo Alto Housing Corporation (PAHC) has extensive knowledge of community issues as well as the application and development processes. The housing development process is long and usually difficult, but our numerous successes are very rewarding. The essential components of the process are: land acquisition, financing, subsidies, pre-development, government review and approval, construction, and occupancy. PAHC built its first affordable housing project in 1972. Visit our List of Properties to see the affordable housing communities that Palo Alto Housing Corporation has developed in Palo Alto.

Outside Alma Place PAHC is always alert for land possibilities. Involvement may include the Comprehensive Plan process, recognizing opportunities on government-owned land, and/or advocating significant mitigations from for-profit developers so land may be acquired with the City's Housing Reserve Fund.

Funding sources are varied and competitive, and often drive housing development. As a non-profit housing developer, PAHC can develop what is appropriate for the community when funds are available. We follow federal, state and local processes for funding trends and opportunities. Our applications for government funding, special financing and grants, and rental assistance are critically important. We are sensitive to the political and economic climate and trends which affect financing.

PAHC works with neighborhoods and the City to ease the government review and approval process and dispel NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) issues. Pre-development and construction involve consultants in architecture, environmental issues, and construction. Members of the PAHC Board of Directors provide a wide range of property development and management and community process skills.

Occupancy also requires careful attention and considerable time to ensure compliance with legal and community requirements. Long lists of needy and appreciative potential tenants make this the most rewarding step.

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