Marina Maalouf, a resident of an affordable housing development in Los Angeles’ Chinatown, enjoyed low rent for over two decades until the landlord raised the rent significantly in 2021, making it unaffordable for her family. This situation is not unique, with potentially 223,000 affordable housing units like Maalouf’s at risk of losing affordability in the next five years across the United States.
These affordable housing units were developed through the federal program known as the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC), which incentivizes developers to keep rents low in exchange for tax credits. With a significant number of LIHTC properties approaching the end of their affordability requirements, there is growing concern about the potential loss of affordable housing units when they are needed most.
While some states like California have taken steps to extend LIHTC agreements and prioritize affordable housing preservation, others have not implemented such measures, leaving low-income tenants vulnerable to rent hikes and evictions. The lack of comprehensive data on when LIHTC units will lose affordability further complicates efforts to address the issue.
Marina Maalouf’s advocacy efforts in Los Angeles have brought attention to the challenges faced by tenants in affordable housing developments. Despite the city’s offer to keep her building affordable, hurdles remain, including pending eviction cases and outstanding rent owed by residents like Maalouf.
The uncertain future of affordable housing units underscores the need for policymakers, advocates, and communities to work together to find sustainable solutions to preserve affordable housing and prevent displacement of low-income families. The ongoing struggle faced by individuals like Maalouf highlights the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address the looming crisis in affordable housing across the country.
