Affordable housing project development is a complicated and challenging process that typically takes between 4 and 7 years depending on a project’s complexity. Many project components can add time and cost to the process, including site challenges, financing source requirements, and whether the neighboring community supports the proposed project.

A successful project requires a team of stakeholders – organizations and individuals with specialized expertise from different disciplines and professions – to work closely together within defined roles. To best tackle ever-changing real estate markets and funding and political environments, many faith- and community-based organizations, non-profits, and housing developers decide that entering into a formal partnership with another organization gives them an advantage in achieving their affordable housing goals. For example, while one organization might have the necessary track record, initial financial capital, and demonstrated experience developing similar projects, a partner might bring a potential development site, vital neighborhood perspective and essential relationships within the community.