Unlocking Opportunities in Affordable Housing

Key Takeaways from the ULI Spring Annual Meeting

Affordable housing is often viewed as a distinct sector from market-rate development—but the two share more common ground than one might think. In a recent panel discussion at the ULI Spring Annual Meeting in Denver titled “Unlocking Opportunities in Affordable Housing,” industry leaders came together to highlight shared challenges, showcase successful collaborations, and identify new opportunities for partnerships across sectors. 

Bohler’s Matt Mrva moderated the panel, leading an insightful discussion between Patricia Belden, The Community Builders, Rodger Brown, POAH, Jim Burnett, Black Squirrel Co, Senthil Sankaran, Amazon Housing Fund, and Mike O’Hara, ULI Washington Advisory Board and Housing Council. 

Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: 

Shared Challenges Create Common Ground

From land acquisition hurdles to rising construction costs and complex approval processes, both affordable and market-rate developers face many of the same obstacles. Recognizing these shared challenges opens the door to more meaningful collaboration and mutual support across the housing landscape. 

Creative Zoning and Financing Can Unlock Development

Case studies from Boston and Wilmington showed how flexible zoning and innovative financing partnerships can make projects viable for both affordable and market-rate developers. 

Streamlined Approvals and Regulatory Reform Reduce Risk

Lengthy and unpredictable approval processes increase costs and deter development. Success stories like Bellevue, WA—where a fully affordable project received approval in just nine months thanks to expedited processes—highlight the importance of creating a more predictable, lower-risk environment for developers of all kinds. 

Innovative Construction Methods Like Modular Can Drive Efficiency

Modular construction offers a promising path to reducing build times and costs, particularly in cities with strict environmental regulations. When local jurisdictions work collaboratively to modernize building codes, they enable more efficient and sustainable housing solutions. 

Community-Focused Development Creates Long-Term Value

Developments like Unity Homes at Ballston (Arlington, VA) illustrate how integrating community amenities—such as daycare, food distribution, religious institutions, and transit access—can create lasting value for residents and the surrounding neighborhood. These holistic projects often gain stronger public support and serve as models for inclusive development. 

Moving Affordable Housing Forward

The affordable housing conversation is no longer just for affordable developers. By identifying overlap and embracing partnership opportunities, market-rate and affordable housing developers alike can play a critical role in addressing our nation’s housing crisis. As the panel made clear, collaborative, community-minded, and creatively financed solutions are not only possible—they’re already happening.