BuzzHouse: A Baker Tilly Podcast
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BuzzHouse is a podcast series specifically for professionals in the multifamily housing industry. Each episode features current issues, hot topics and guests from the industry to help you win now and anticipate tomorrow.
Available episodes
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5 days ago
Multifamily housing Q1 2023 market update
Brent Maier, principal and Baker Tilly national real estate valuation and advisory leader, returns to the BuzzHouse podcast to provide trends and insights on the multifamily housing industry’s first quarter of 2023.
Maier dives into the recent actions of the Federal Reserve and what to keep an eye on moving forward. Although employment rates remain strong, there is concern on corporations continuing to lay off workers. He also talks about interest rates in construction and how it affects the multifamily sector, trends in rent growth and his comments on why cap rates are slowly increasing.
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_Presented by Baker Tilly_
www.bakertilly.com
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May 9, 2023
Healthy buildings and energy efficiency in affordable housing
On this episode of BuzzHouse, hosts Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson sit down with Andrea Ponsor, the President and CEO of Stewards of Affordable Housing for the Future (SAHF). She shares some insight into what it takes to cultivate collaboration with multiple stakeholders in order to achieve common goals in affordable housing. Andrea dives into her work on finance innovation, her focus on supporting healthy outcomes in housing and the recent initiatives SAHF is working on to create equitable housing for all.
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Facebook @BakerTillyUS
Instagram @bakertillyus
_Presented by Baker Tilly_
www.bakertilly.com
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Apr 25, 2023
Exploring LIHTC trends and underwriting changes in today’s market
On this episode of BuzzHouse, hosts Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson are joined by Rachel Rhodes of the National Equity Fund. She shares some insight into what’s going on in the world of the Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) and changes with underwriting. She also touches on the macro effects of the Silicon Valley bank shutdown, current trends we’re seeing in this space as well as exploring how investors are looking at the Inflation Reduction Act and the additional credits.
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Twitter @BakerTillyUS
Facebook @BakerTillyUS
Instagram @bakertillyus
_Presented by Baker Tilly_
www.bakertilly.com
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Apr 10, 2023
Compassionate capitalism and an innovative housing model in blighted communities
On this episode of BuzzHouse, host Garrick Gibson is joined by a titan who uses her influence in the affordable housing industry for the greater good: real estate asset manager, investor, author, affordable housing solutionist and “compassionate capitalist” Marjy Stagmeier. Also joining the show is Matt Paschall, program lead of Baker Tilly’s DevelUP Initiative. Marjy speaks to Garrick about how she led her company, TriStar, to develop its sustainable housing model. She also talks about her efforts to forge partnerships to reduce tenant transiency, and her new book “Blighted.” Matt also shares the story of how he met Marjy while planning this year’s annual DevelUP: affordable housing workshop.
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Twitter @BakerTillyUS
Facebook @BakerTillyUS
Instagram @bakertillyus
_Presented by Baker Tilly_
www.bakertilly.com
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Mar 28, 2023
Celebrating women in affordable housing with Women’s Affordable Housing Network
On this episode of BuzzHouse, hosts Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson are celebrating Women’s History Month with the Women’s Affordable Housing Network’s (WAHN) National President, Ashley Northcutt, and Baker Tilly Director Nuwandi Trahan who also serves on the board of WAHN. WAHN is an organization committed to amending the gender barrier in affordable housing. Ashley and Nuwandi discuss the important work WAHN does, why such an organization is so needed in the affordable housing space and what goals they’re aiming for in the future. They also touch on some of the benefits of being a WAHN member and share their individual journeys within the industry.
Follow Us
Twitter @BakerTillyUS
Facebook @BakerTillyUS
Instagram @bakertillyus
_Presented by Baker Tilly_
www.bakertilly.com
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Mar 14, 2023
Multifamily housing Q4 2022 market update
On this episode of BuzzHouse, hosts Don Bernards and Garrick gibson welcome back Brent Maier, principal and Baker Tilly national real estate valuation and advisory leader to provide trends and insights on the multifamily housing industry’s fourth quarter of 2022.
Maier dives into the current economic outlook and sheds light on the challenges that 2022 brought. Although professionals should be aware of a potential looming recession, he is optimistic about the inflation percentage lowering further next fiscal year. He also shares insights on multifamily investments remaining strong, the steady demand for rental units and where rent growth stands.
Follow Us
Twitter @BakerTillyUS
Facebook @BakerTillyUS
Instagram @bakertillyus
_Presented by Baker Tilly_
www.bakertilly.com
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Feb 28, 2023
Medicaid’s role in affordable housing programs
On this episode, hosts Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson interview Curtis Cunningham, the Assistant Administrator for Benefits and Service within the Wisconsin Department of Health Services and the Division of Medicaid Services, to hear his insight on Medicaid’s role in affordable housing programs. Curtis shares that without stable housing and a housing-first approach, the efficacy of medical treatment falls behind. The group also discusses how one can qualify for Medicaid, some of the regulations around housing and Medicaid, and what housing services are available for elderly and disabled persons.
Follow Us
Twitter @BakerTillyUS
Facebook @BakerTillyUS
Instagram @bakertillyus
Presented by Baker Tilly
www.bakertilly.com
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Feb 14, 2023
Anticipating Atlanta! The buzz around the 2023 DevelUP: affordable housing workshop
Our hosts Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson welcome back Baker Tilly’s Matt Paschall, program director of the DevelUP initiative. The goal of DevelUP is to bring underrepresented housing and commercial real estate professionals together to equip them with the resources and relationships they need to be successful. Matt’s vision is to help these professionals mitigate barriers to capital, social capital and subject matter expertise and create meaningful connections. As this year’s DevelUP workshop inches closer, Matt dives into detail on what you can expect from the workshop taking place this year in Atlanta. Learn more about the workshop’s session topics, speaker roster and the community initiatives surrounding the event.
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Jan 30, 2023
Using tax-exempt, high-yield bonds to create workforce housing through private and public sector
On this episode, hosts Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson interview Wade Norris, a partner at the law firm Norris George & Ostrow PLLC, to get his perspective as a leader in the tax and bond finance field. Wade focuses on the 501(c)(3) bond space along with essential function bonds, what they are, how he has seen them in the workforce housing space and what’s unique about these bonds.
To address the workforce housing need, projects in some states were put into public ownership, which generated a real estate tax exemption for extra cash flow to make units more affordable. Wade talks about the risks of these tools and gives advice on how future multifamily housing owners can start their journey.
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Jan 17, 2023
2022 wrapped up – the top housing topics of the year
As 2022 ended, our hosts Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson wrapped up the year by discussing notable hot topics from the year. We’re hitting points from average income rules to the Inflation Reduction Act, redevelopment with public housing authorities and more. As we kickstart 2023, our hosts also cover legislation and trends to keep an eye on as the new year progresses.
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Jan 3, 2023
Fostering healthcare and housing through relationships as a community investment
On this episode, hosts Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson sit down with three industry titans: Nora Bloch, Kevin Progar and Tracy Kaufman to discuss the hot topic of intersecting healthcare and housing. Our guests dive into their respected companies’ strategies on partnerships with hospitals and health organizations to finance affordable housing in their communities. The goal of building a bridge between health institutions and affordable housing is to upstream community investment in social determinants of health to build relationships within the community they serve. Bloch, Progar and Kaufman also share success stories, examples of collaborations, and challenges they’ve faced.
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Dec 20, 2022
Multifamily housing Q3 2022 market update
Brent Maier, principal and Baker Tilly national real estate valuation and advisory leader, returns to the BuzzHouse podcast to provide trends and insights on the multifamily housing industry’s third quarter of 2022.
Maier dives into hot topics such as construction cost and the current state of supply chain and labor availability, as compared to previous quarters. He also discusses his outlook on rent growth and control, where it is trending and his take on the overall outlook for the multifamily sector.
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Dec 13, 2022
AHF Live 2022 special episode featuring special guests and conference panelists
2022 AHF Live
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Nov 7, 2022
Pending affordable housing legislation to look out for
On this episode of BuzzHouse, hosts Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson are joined by Garth Rieman, Director of Housing Advocacy and Strategic Initiatives for the National Council of State Housing Agencies (NCSHA). Garth gives a legislative insider scoop on hot topics including various affordable housing bills and their chances of passing in Congress, the Biden administration priorities and the availability of tax-exempt bonds and potential dialogue for any reform within the CRA spectrum. Additionally, Garth dives into the Neighborhood Homes Investment Act and its objective to help increase the supply of affordable housing for sale.
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Oct 26, 2022
Identifying state tax credit programs' key aspects and how to advocate for expansions
On this episode of BuzzHouse, hosts Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson are joined by Chris Hite, President of Sugar Creek Capital, and Philip Gilman, Director of Tax Policy for Sugar Creek Capital. Chris and Philip discuss the primary differences between state tax credit programs and how government and culture differences play into factor. They dive into the biggest risk factors for state tax credits, which mirror Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) risks and how state laws can change due to ever-changing environmental factors such as interest rates and borrowing costs. Chris and Phillip also talk about the current landscape for the potential of new programs and extensions, including advice on how to advocate for each state’s respective programs.
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Sep 26, 2022
Impacts and opportunities from the Inflation Reduction Act on the multifamily housing industry
On this episode of BuzzHouse, the hosts are joined by Mike Land, senior managing director with Baker Tilly Capital, to discuss the impacts from the Inflation Reduction Act for multifamily housing projects. The Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law in August 2022 by President Biden. The opportunities from this Act are vast, especially for the multifamily industry. Mike dives into the credit opportunities including timing considerations, levels of credit percentages, what projects qualify and where to begin.
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Sep 12, 2022
Mission-driven real estate investment firm creates synergy in communities with people-first investing
On this episode of BuzzHouse, the hosts sit down Joshua Pollard, president and CEO of Omicelo. Omicelo is a mission-driven real estate investment firm with a not-for-profit partnership called Omicelo Cares. Through the partnership of a for-profit investment firm and not-for-profit, Joshua describes the unique services they can provide to the communities they are investing in. Joshua also discusses the important factors to focus on when looking to grow a development business and making the commercial real estate industry more equitable and accessible.
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Aug 29, 2022
Multifamily housing Q2 2022 market update
Brent Maier, principal with Baker Tilly’s real estate valuation advisory team, returns to the BuzzHouse podcast to provide trends and insights on the multifamily housing industry’s second quarter of 2022.
Maier discusses hot topics including inflation rates, gas prices and unemployment rates from this past quarter. He also goes into the concerns around rent growth with the decline in occupancy and delays in projects from ongoing supply chain challenges.
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Aug 15, 2022
Addressing misconceptions in affordable housing to build inclusive communities
On this episode of the BuzzHouse, hosts Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson talk to Toni Jackson, principal with The Banks Law Firm, after the Texas Housing Conference. Toni is a passionate leader in the affordable housing industry and an advocate for eliminating the misconceptions of multifamily housing to build more communities with housing resources.
We are at an incredible time for affordable housing because the need for more units is so high and only growing. Toni discusses why costs are a challenge for building affordable housing and how they are hurting deals from getting done. She also points out the need to educate communities on what affordable housing is and who it serves.
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Jul 18, 2022
An update on RAD with HUD’s Tom Davis
On this episode of the BuzzHouse, hosts Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson sit down with Tom Davis, director of the office of recapitalization at the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to discuss all things Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD). Tom provides background on Faircloth-to-RAD conversions and the success they’ve seen so far, including more than 30 projects in the pipeline in only a little over a year since it was created.
Tom also details the financial and nonfinancial items HUD requested in the 2023 budget for RAD. While congress is currently debating the budget, there are several tweaks that could be impactful to the renovation and preservation of the existing public housing portfolio. Other topics include an overview of RAD for PRAC, observations on RAD section 18 blends and HUD’s high priorities for the next three to five years.
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Jul 5, 2022
Reimagining the role of housing agencies
Baker Tilly's podcast series specifically for professionals in the multifamily housing industry
On this episode of the BuzzHouse, hosts Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson are joined by Duncan Damon, principal of Clesia Ventures. Duncan shares his vision for housing agencies and the idea of reimagining their role. Through programs like Choice Neighborhoods, housing agencies are shifting to being catalysts for community planning and redevelopment and moving away from the traditional model of only administering housing programs. He also discusses challenges housing authorities face including culture shifts, competition for resources and more.
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Jun 20, 2022
Important factors of cost certification for multifamily housing projects
On this episode of the BuzzHouse, hosts Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson discuss key elements of cost certifications with Jeff Blattner, partner with Baker Tilly’s real estate and construction team. Cost certification is an important part of the development phase of multifamily housing projects. Jeff goes over the important factors of cost certifications including timing, and efficiency, important documents to share and focus areas in the budget review.
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Jun 6, 2022
How to protect your company from cyber threats
On this episode of the BuzzHouse, hosts Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson discuss cybersecurity concerns with Chris Hand, president and owner of ACC Management Group and Ken Zoline, senior manager with Baker Tilly’s cybersecurity and IT risk consulting practice. Chris and Ken share their experiences with cyberattacks and what they’ve done to protect against them. The group also discusses what companies can do to improve their cybersecurity measures.
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May 23, 2022
Q&A with affordable housing titans
On this episode of the BuzzHouse, hosts Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson talk to Michael Lear, Chief Business Development Officer at The Community Development Trust (CDT) and Michael Rossi, Senior Director at Enterprise Housing Credit Investments, at the Affordable Housing Summit in Minneapolis. The two affordable housing titans share their insight into the industry including debt and long-term equity investment options, rising interest rates and costs, as well as what investors are asking and looking for in deals.
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May 9, 2022
Multifamily housing Q1 2022 market update
Brent Maier, managing director with Baker Tilly’s real estate valuation advisory team, is back on the BuzzHouse podcast to share his insights on the multifamily housing industry’s first quarter of 2022. Maier discusses the recent increase in investment in multifamily assets and robust rent growth. He also speaks on the continued cost of construction and rising interest rates and how they are affecting the multifamily industry.
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Apr 25, 2022
Refresher on tax credits that pair well with LIHTC on affordable housing projects
On this episode of the BuzzHouse, hosts Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson give a refresher on credits that pair well with low-income housing tax credits (LIHTC). Garrick dives into the available resources to help fill the funding gaps on affordable housing projects including 45L energy efficient home credit, solar energy credit and historic rehabilitation tax credit. The hosts also discuss what they are seeing with state LIHTC programs and how more states are understanding their use and how to administer the credits effectively.
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Apr 12, 2022
Underrepresented developers’ obstacles in the affordable housing industry
On this episode of the BuzzHouse, hosts Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson sit down with Matt Paschall, senior associate and underrepresented developer services advisor at Baker Tilly. Matt lays out the current obstacles facing underrepresented developers in the multifamily space. He describes strategies to tackle challenges including partnerships, access to capital and funding resources, and educational and networking opportunities.
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Mar 14, 2022
Preserving affordable housing in communities
On this episode of the BuzzHouse, hosts Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson interview Mary Wright, president of Wisconsin Housing Preservation Corporation. Wright reveals the housing issues she’s dealing with now and in the near future, including the rising interest rates and higher construction costs. She also speaks about educating communities about the benefits of affordable housing, shares why she believes development is the hardest job in real estate, and more.
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Feb 28, 2022
Challenges in moving affordable housing projects forward
On this episode, hosts Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson interview Quinn Gormley, EVP National Real Estate Development at Housing Trust Group, LLC, in a discussion focusing on the challenges developers face in moving affordable housing projects forward.
Gormley shares signs of returning to normalcy with regards to building material categories, the supply chain and labor challenges for developers and vendors, as well as the value of state credits.
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Feb 14, 2022
Multifamily housing Q4 2021 market update
Brent Maier, managing director with Baker Tilly’s real estate valuation advisory team, returns to the BuzzHouse podcast to share his thoughts on the multifamily housing industry’s fourth quarter of 2021.
Maier speaks on the economic indicators at the end of 2021, including competition for talent driving wages higher and the challenges of wages rising against inflation. The hosts also touch on new legislation being introduced in Illinois, Indiana, Colorado and more.
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Jan 31, 2022
Multifamily construction faces material lead time challenges and new technology advances
COVID-19 took a hit on the construction industry, impacting labor and the supply chain. And although demand to build within the housing industry is high, labor participation rates are still low and material lead times remain long.
On this episode, we’re joined by general contractor Lowell Barron II to gather further insight on the state of the construction industry and the inside scoop on what’s happening day-to-day. Is inflation greatly affecting construction material costs? What new construction technologies should you watch out for? Listen now to find out.
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Jan 17, 2022
Have a positive construction experience—the dos and don’ts of construction audits and the draw process
Ensuring a smooth construction draw process and navigating construction audits in projects can be a heavy task for owners and developers. On this episode, we break down the components of the construction draw process, submission requirements, best practices and main reasons projects may face a delay in getting a draw funded. In addition, we’ll share an overview of construction audits and detail if your project may be a good candidate.
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Jan 4, 2022
ESG and the rise of responsible investing in multifamily housing
A trillion-dollar industry, environmental, social and governance (ESG) investing is the latest hot topic in the multifamily housing industry. Set to change the world of investing, real estate investors are utilizing ESG criteria in order to choose responsible investments that satisfy the three pillars of ESG.
As we begin a new year, it’s the perfect time to look at your investment strategy and how ESG goals can be incorporated. This episode details the value of ESG, how ESG investing will impact companies, how to improve your ESG metrics and ESG’s role in affordable housing.
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Dec 20, 2021
2021 rewind - the top housing topics of the year
With the year coming to a close we’re rewinding 2021 to give you a countdown of the most noteworthy housing accomplishments and topics of the year…in just 20 minutes. We’re hitting everything from the fixed 4% tax credit rate to rising construction costs to public housing repositioning. And as we head into 2022, our hosts share the things in the industry they are keeping their eye on.
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Dec 6, 2021
Wisconsin-based not-for-profit creates innovative workforce housing fund
Madison Development Corporation, or MDC, is a not-for-profit organization based out of Madison, Wis. focused on providing quality, affordable housing and financing for hard-to-finance businesses in the county. Recently they partnered with the Economic Stability Council of Dane County to champion the Dane Workforce Housing Fund, LLC – a fund financed by socially responsible employers.
Join us as President and CEO of MDC shares how this fund is unique, detailing the lending terms and pace of the loans and MDC’s process for reviewing projects. In addition, you’ll learn MDC’s future plans and advice for setting up a similar type of fund in your community.
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Nov 22, 2021
AHF Live 2021 show special - hear from conference panelists and other special guests
BuzzHouse takes AHF Live! With all the buzz around the 2021 AHF Live affordable housing conference and exposition in Chicago, we’re bringing you an episode straight from the show. We sat down with select conference panelists and other special guests to bring you an insider special.
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Nov 8, 2021
An interview with NCSHA executive director Stockton Williams
Stockton Williams, NCSHA’s executive director, sits down with us for an exclusive discussion on emergency rental assistance programs and the reinstatement of the Federal Financing Bank (FFB) initiative to support FHA-HFA multifamily Risk-Sharing program loans. He also shares the key housing provisions NCHSA is focused on, including initiatives related to expanding credit access and affordable housing for households and communities of color.
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Oct 25, 2021
How to optimize solar energy in your next multifamily housing project
Thinking about going solar for your next build? Or adding to your existing building? We discuss the benefits of adding solar to multifamily housing, the point in a construction project developers should plan to add solar features, the ideal (and not-so-ideal) candidate for solar and the available financing you can tap into.
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Oct 11, 2021
State of the debt market for multifamily housing
Two industry professionals join us to discuss the current state of the debt market. More specifically, COVID-19’s impact on underwriting changes and stress testing on construction loans; requests for forbearance; market rates; and what Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are doing in the workforce housing space.
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Sep 13, 2021
NLIHC’s 2021 ‘The Gap’ report addresses a shortage of affordable homes
There are 10.8 million extremely low income renters, but only four million homes that are both affordable and available to them. Dan Threet of the National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC) shares key findings from the research team’s 2021 “The Gap” report, demographics of people facing severe housing shortages and housing trends he has taken note of over the past several reports.
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Aug 30, 2021
Housing champion breaks down President Biden’s proposed HUD budget increase
In May 2021 President Biden released the proposed budget for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – a 15% increase from FY21. If passed, the budget would provide significant investments in affordable housing.
We invited Denise Muha, housing advocate and Executive Director of National Leased Housing Association (NLHA) to explain the budget framework, next steps in Washington and overall outlook for housing spend. She also shares what long-term housing goals she is working on and NLHA’s top legislation priorities for the industry this year.
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Aug 16, 2021
Multifamily housing Q2 2021 market update
With strong economic growth demonstrated in the second quarter of 2021, there are a lot of reasons to be optimistic about the multifamily housing sector. On this episode, we discuss the quarter’s trends as it relates to COVID-19, acquisitions and activity and the outlook for the coming quarter.
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Aug 3, 2021
Structuring and underwriting multifamily housing deals in the current equity market
From inflation to new legislation, there are a lot of changes in the market that are impacting multifamily housing deals. On this episode, we welcome Philip Porter of Enterprise Community Investment to share what developers need to be thinking about amid new bond deal laws, the fixed 4% tax credit rate, income averaging and state low-income housing tax credits. He shares how underwriting has changed over the past 12-18 months and gives his recommendations for developers to successfully tackle new projects within the current equity market.
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Jul 19, 2021
State and local governments to play a key role in housing investment utilizing American Rescue Plan funds
On this episode, learn what funding sources state and local governments are receiving from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 and plans for how that money will be spent, as well as the strategies municipalities are using to drive housing and community development projects. As communities work to develop their spending plans, don’t miss an explanation of the five areas of eligible spending categories outlined by the U.S. Treasury.
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Jul 8, 2021
Housing advocate breaks down multifamily housing programs proposed by the Biden administration
Our hosts welcome David Gasson, a housing advocate who consults with Congress members regularly on housing issues and policies, to share how recently proposed federal plans will affect the housing industry.
David opens the curtain to what is happening on Capitol Hill and the provisions being discussed in the bipartisan infrastructure deal, American Jobs Plan and Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act, as well as the key takeaways of the requested HUD budget increase. Most importantly, David shares how you can become an advocate to help get legislation passed in Washington.
_**Recording date: July 1, 2021_
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Jun 21, 2021
Repositioning for PHAs – explained
Are you a public housing authority (PHA) looking to reposition for the very first time? Or maybe you’ve closed a deal but still have some PHA units in your portfolio and want to know your options? This episode takes a look at what repositioning is, how it’s different from recapitalization and what you need to do to get started. Listen to learn more about PIH Notice 2021-07 and what’s new in the world of repositioning.
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Jun 7, 2021
How developers can mitigate rising construction material costs amid lumber price hikes
Lumber prices have soared, tripling over the past 12 months forcing developers to adjust project plans and bids accordingly. As reported by the National Association of Home Builders, the price of an average new single-family home has increased by $35,872. Despite low interest rates, these high construction costs can be a game changer for a project’s bottom line. In this episode our multifamily housing specialists share how you can mitigate material cost increases, what you should think about if currently bidding a job or projecting a future bid, how to identify project scope items for efficiencies and when the lumber cost increase is expected to stabilize.
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May 24, 2021
What the American Jobs Plan could mean for the future of multifamily housing
The housing provision of President Biden’s infrastructure plan—officially titled the American Jobs Plan—includes a $213 billion investment in housing. From proposed expansion of the 9% credit to modifications to the 10-year hold rule, Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson share the specifics of the plan and how it stands to impact you.
Episode links: The White House’s American Jobs Plan Fact Sheet
Connect with our hosts: Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson
For articles, webinars and additional Baker Tilly resources for multifamily housing professionals, visit bakertilly.com.
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May 10, 2021
Multifamily housing Q1 2021 market update
Market intelligence equips owners and developers with meaningful market advice for their real estate portfolios. On this episode, listen to the multifamily housing market trends, transaction activity, analysis and outlook from the first quarter to ensure your next venture is a smart one. Plus, understand how inflation may impact the multifamily housing industry so you can get ahead of it.
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Apr 26, 2021
One-year anniversary! Favorite moments, Bose headphones giveaway and the year’s most impactful industry changes
BuzzHouse is celebrating one full year of podcasting! On this anniversary episode Don and Garrick reminisce on the past year, sharing their favorite memories and episodes. In addition, they talk about the most notable industry changes that have, and will continue to have, the biggest impact in the multifamily housing industry.
Giveaway details: To celebrate one year of podcasting, we are giving away one pair of BuzzHouse-branded Bose quiet comfort noise cancelling headphones to one lucky listener! To enter the giveaway, visit the Baker Tilly US LinkedIn page and find our post sharing this episode. React to the post using the “like” button by April 30th. One winner will be selected at random and you will only be contacted if you’ve been selected.
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Apr 13, 2021
IRS hearing on average income and 4% rate with tax attorney Glenn Graff
Tax attorney and industry titan, Glenn Graff joins BuzzHouse fresh off the March 24 Internal Revenue Service (IRS) public hearing on proposed regulations related to the average income test for low-income housing tax credit (LIHTC) properties. Glenn shares his key takeaways from the hearing and touches on other hot button issues dealing with affordable housing including additional clarification around Notice 2021-12 and the 4% locked credit rate.
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Mar 29, 2021
Rising lumber costs due to COVID-19 causes a shift in multifamily housing design trends
With COVID-19 greatly impacting supply chains and construction material prices, multifamily housing developers are getting creative to combat costs. Jason Korb of Korb + Associates Architects shares the architectural design changes he is seeing in the multifamily housing industry, such as a move towards mass timber and carbon neutral concrete. Hear COVID-19-inspired design features, recommended material choices for your projects and growth areas in sustainable design.
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Mar 15, 2021
Should you consider twinning LIHTC and historic tax credits in a transaction?
The act of combining (or “twinning”) tax credits, such as the low-income housing tax credit (LIHTC) and historic tax credit (HTC), can offer developers an opportunity to bridge a funding gap and improve the rates of return on transactions for investors.
This episode explains the benefits a twinned structure in an affordable housing development and the key differences in pricing, structures, debt execution and cash flow to help you decide if twinning LIHTC and HTC is the right move for your next transaction.
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Mar 1, 2021
Highlights of the tax-exempt market for affordable housing deals
A leading investment banker shares insight into the current tax-exempt market, 80/20 tax-exempt bond transactions, example structures for states with Volume Cap to achieve government bonds, amortization terms, and products for Year 15 acquisitions and refinances.
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Feb 15, 2021
Public housing portfolios to benefit from recent HUD notice expanding RAD/Section 18 blends
On Jan. 19, 2021, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) issued PIH Notice 2021-07 regarding public housing repositioning and Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) Section 18 blends, the eligibility for tenant-protection vouchers and associated application requirements. To grasp exactly how this notice will affect the public housing industry, we brought in housing veteran Pat Costigan to give us an overview of the notice and the game changers that could strengthen your portfolio.
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Feb 1, 2021
Social service programs provide positive financial impact on affordable housing communities
If a social service program saves even two residents per month, it would equate to $60,000 a year in savings. Social service programs give the tenant population the ability to enhance behaviors that drive value-based living, which can further advance the social and economic contributors to a community development and a tenant’s personal financial position.
In this episode, President/Executive Director of Rainbow Housing, Flynann Janisee, answers why social services are an important part of affordable housing, which areas need social service programs the most, and what developers should consider when thinking about implementing a social service program within their projects.
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Jan 18, 2021
PPP update and guidance following the second round of PPP funding
Round two of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), also referred to as PPP2, was renewed as part of the Economic Aid to Hard-Hit Small Businesses, Nonprofits, and Venues Act. The $900 billion relief package includes $284 billion towards the new round of PPP loans, providing more avenues of relief for small businesses.
Find out if you are eligible for funding, learn the acceptable uses for PPP funding and understand the parameters for forgiveness and tax deductions.
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Jan 4, 2021
Maximize your tax benefits with these tax-efficient strategies for multifamily developers
Reaching your financial goals starts with an efficient investment strategy. On this episode, we discuss the tax-efficient strategies that should be in your back pocket during the upcoming tax season. You’ll learn the depreciation and cost segregation strategies that will help you increase cash flow in the short-term, while maximizing tax savings over time. Make sure you are analyzing the right things as you take a strategic look at your portfolio of assets.
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Dec 7, 2020
Biden’s strategy to change housing with $640 billion, 10-year plan
From raising the corporate tax rate to 28% to homebuyer and renter tax credits, housing practice leaders Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson lay out Joe Biden’s plan for tackling major housing issues. Specifically, they cover the areas the $640 billion plan focuses on and how the tax changes could affect the housing industry and low-income communities.
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Nov 23, 2020
BuzzHouse: Tax prep for affordable housing projects
As tax season quickly approaches, Don and Garrick catch you up on a number of tax-related topics that could add value to your affordable housing project. They will share the enhanced bonus depreciation rates and the importance of a cost segregation study to determine your after-tax benefit. In addition, they will walk through the 45L energy efficiency tax credit provisions impacting the real estate industry and changes in HUD designated Qualified Census Tracts (QCTs).
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Nov 9, 2020
Maximizing your LIHTC deal: LOIs and partnership agreements
On this episode of BuzzHouse, we discuss hot topics around LIHTC deals, with a special focus on components of equity LOIs and partnership agreements. Our guest, Jon Peterson of real estate and construction law firm Winthrop & Weinstine, will share what he is seeing in special allocations in LIHTC deals and trends with bond deals.
You will learn how owners in Year 15 exits can negotiate LPA disclosures to address some of the exit issues that are coming up in new deals, opportunities to negotiate the upward adjuster in case of a fixed 4% credit rate, as well as some key things to think about while in negotiation with your limited partnership agreements.
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Oct 26, 2020
Understanding Opportunity Zone investments in multifamily projects
On this episode, Don and Garrick speak to Executive Vice President of Baker Tilly Capital, Mike Fitzpatrick, on Opportunity Zones (OZ). They discuss the types of projects that are attractive to investors in the current market, the general underwriting benchmarks sponsors should be aware of, and how the election is impacting OZ equity.
If you have large capital gain, Mike will share some options for getting into an investment and how you can factor the value of OZ benefits into your investment analysis.
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Oct 12, 2020
BuzzHouse: Understanding Historic Tax Credit deals and COVID-19’s impact
Multifamily housing leaders and hosts, Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson, bring in the director of Stonehenge Capital to discuss state and federal historic tax credit transactions. The episode brings us back to the basics by developing an understanding of the equity market space and who the key players are. They dive in deeper to discuss what underwriters are looking for in historic deals and the initial conversations you should have when approaching the rehabilitating and re-use of historic buildings. In addition, you’ll gain insight into how COVID-19 has impacted historic underwriting and deal structures.
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Sep 28, 2020
BuzzHouse: Increased multifamily property insurance rates are causing developers to become strategic
As the insurance market hardens, pricing on average is up approximately 15-25% higher than it was this time last year. In addition, the insurance market isn’t expected to get any better over the next two years. We asked insurance specialists from M3 Insurance to join us to talk about what multifamily housing developers and owners can do to control their rates and get the best terms and pricing from insurance companies. Brad Winchester and Isaac Bechen offer advice on how to align with your insurance provider and initiatives to think about as you strategically plan for the future.
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Sep 15, 2020
BuzzHouse: A look into the current multifamily sales market
Take an inside look into the multifamily buying and selling world and the impact COVID-19 has had on the multifamily sales market. With special guests Eric Taylor and Aaron Hargrove from private commercial real estate finance and investment company, Greystone. They will detail the pipeline of assets they are bringing to market, what they are seeing with capitalization rates, current seller motivations and changes in the buyer market.
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Aug 18, 2020
BuzzHouse: COVID-19’s impact on HUD financing for multifamily housing
In response to COVID-19, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has undergone many changes to its loans and programs. On this episode, Adam Hendin of Gersham Mortgage, joins us to discuss COVID-19’s impact to processing times on HUD loans, underwriting, forbearance, rate fluctuation and the 223f product three-year rule.
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Aug 5, 2020
BuzzHouse: Multifamily housing news: four updates in 14 minutes
In this episode of BuzzHouse, Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson update you on the latest news surrounding the multifamily housing and community development industry over the last few weeks.
First, they start with an update on applications including the CDFI Fund that released awardees of New Market Tax Credits, as well as the Capital Magnet Fund. Then they dive into Notice 2020-53 for LIHTC deals, followed by the key provisions of the Health, Economic Assistance, Liability Protection and Schools (HEALS) Act— the latest COVID-19 stimulus package. Lastly, they share high-level takeaways from two newly released national reports.
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Jul 28, 2020
BuzzHouse: What municipalities want multifamily housing developers to know
What effects will COVID-19 have on available multifamily housing funding by municipalities? What strategies are municipalities bringing to the table? What information should developers provide to municipalities when starting projects? Baker Tilly’s municipal advisors Terri Heaton and Mikaela Huot join our hosts to discuss multifamily housing from a municipality viewpoint and everything municipalities want you to know as a developer. They will answer these questions and more to prepare you for your next public housing project.
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Jul 6, 2020
BuzzHouse: How COVID-19 is affecting multifamily housing market studies
David Haviland is a Baker Tilly senior manager, best known for his multitude of experience helping multifamily housing developers identify opportunities through market studies. In this episode, he reveals how COVID-19 has impacted the process of market studies and why virtual site visits may be the wave of the future. Hosts, Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson dig deeper to uncover chatter around rent collections, especially as it relates to secondary outbreaks. David deconstructs the multifamily housing market to share predicted design and amenity changes as renters’ mindsets shift, as well as new and successful marketing strategies that listeners can implement.
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Jun 23, 2020
BuzzHouse: Modular construction for multifamily housing: what you need to know
Join Don and Garrick as they interview, Baker Tilly senior manager Spencer Skinner, on a trend gaining momentum in the industry for developers: modular construction. With a primary goal of reducing construction labor costs of a project, Spencer shares how he helped a client use modular building to close a construction gap of six to eight million and reallocate the savings to other parts of the project. Spencer will also answer common questions for developers considering modular construction, including when you should consider this type of building, what components developers are responsible for, and some challenges you may face.
The hosts will also give some quick industry updates including the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency’s (OCC) final release of their Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) requirements and Senator Wyden’s call for housing credit enhancements in the next coronavirus bill.
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Jun 2, 2020
BuzzHouse: Handling disputes as you approach Year 15
Over the next five years approximately 635,000 low-income multifamily housing units will reach Year 15. To date, this is the most in the history of the low-income housing tax credit (LIHTC) preservation program (Year 15). As you approach your 15-year compliance period, specialized disputes involve extremely complicated transactions, new and existing parties, and parties whose objectives have changed since inception of the partnership. Guest and trial lawyer David Davenport speaks with Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson on signs of dispute, where disputes may arise and language you should focus on when drafting buy-out sections.
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May 26, 2020
BuzzHouse: Action steps for developers when dealing with projects in construction during COVID-19
Laura Cataldo, a Baker Tilly senior manager who works with contractors across the country on performance and management effectiveness, joins Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson in an episode geared towards developers with projects in construction.
Learn about what contractors are doing to stay healthy and safe during COVID-19, force majeure clauses in contracts that may benefit you, and how to vet potential contractors for future jobs. The team will also dive into how you can be proactive as you deal with supply chain issues affecting building materials, furloughed municipal workers delaying inspections and certificate of occupancies, and impacts causing delays in project timelines.
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May 18, 2020
BuzzHouse: Rent collections, making attractive deals and fixed tax credit percentages
With unemployment rising to an ultimate 14.7% rate, many multifamily housing developers and owners are interested in what future rent collections will look like. Join Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson as they speak to these upcoming rent collections, as well as how to make your deal more attractive for a tax credit investor, and what developers can do to help mitigate the current drop in investor pricing.
As the multifamily housing industry pushes for a fixed 4% tax credit and lower requirements for the 50% test, Garrick will explain the key factors driving this and recommend some talking points when addressing legislators.
Don and Garrick will also dive into what the next round of proposed COVID-19 legislation could mean for you, including a housing assistance fund and emergency rental assistance.
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May 12, 2020
BuzzHouse: Should you refinance your multifamily property amid COVID-19?
With interest rates at an all-time low, many multifamily housing developers may be considering refinancing properties. Hosts Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson outline the main considerations when looking at a refinance opportunity and how you should approach an investor. In addition, Garrick details examples of how refinancing can be used to pay off deferred fees or sponsored loans that would be considered eligible debt and Don discusses tax credit pricing in the equity markets over the last few weeks. You’ll also get an inside look at what the historic industry is doing in Washington to aid in economic recovery after experiencing historic project construction delays.
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May 6, 2020
BuzzHouse: New and needed COVID-19 legislation to support the housing industry
On this week’s episode of BuzzHouse, Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson dissect the provisions on new legislation and regulations recently passed, including the differences between Notice 2020-23 and Revenue Procedure 2014-49. Providing a quick summary of the fourth relief package released at the end of April – roughly $484 billion – Gibson and Bernards detail where that money is being focused. And as new legislation is released, what could be included that would greatly impact the housing industry? Tune in to find out more.
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Apr 27, 2020
BuzzHouse: A developer’s checklist during COVID-19
On BuzzHouse’s first episode, Baker Tilly partners Don Bernards and Garrick Gibson outline a checklist of key considerations a developer should use when focusing on operating results during a time of uncertainty. Analyzing asset management at a property level is key, with over 22 million people without jobs and an increase in those unable to pay rent, as well as delays in construction and a slowdown in leasing. The hosts share how property managers are working with tenants on rent payments, cash flow solutions and sensitivity analyses and calculations. Tune in to hear the imperative asset management steps you should be working through on each of your properties.
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