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On the Affordable Housing & Real Estate Investing Podcast, the best podcast for affordable housing investments hosted by Kent Fai He, today’s conversation is genuinely one of my favorites. 

I sit down with Trevor Fay, founder of KOPA and one of the trustees responsible for helping oversee more than 80 billion dollars at the Los Angeles County Employee Retirement Association. This episode is about ownership, access, and giving everyday people a real shot at building wealth.

When I met Trevor, I felt like he was speaking the truth that so many families feel in their gut. Home prices went up. Wages didn’t. People worked hard, did everything they were told, and still ended up feeling like they were falling behind. Trevor breaks that down in a way that makes the whole system make sense. Then he lays out a new path forward.

I love this episode because Trevor shows you how ownership changes people. When people feel like they have a stake in their neighborhood or their country, the whole way they show up shifts. That’s the heart of affordable housing and impact investing. It’s about giving people the chance to build something that matters for their family.

I believe that if we can increase ownership for more people, we can change families, neighborhoods, and cities. Trevor breaks down exactly how that can happen and how each of us can take the next step.

Why This Episode Matters for Real Estate Investors and Developers... we break down: 

• Why assets took off starting around 1979.
• Why the middle class feels squeezed.
• Why more people feel disconnected, lonely, or stuck.
• Why renters feel trapped and buyers feel behind.
• Why developers are building into a system that rewards existing owners more than new entrants.
• How do large financial institutions evaluate opportunities, fund managers / sponsors, and risk so you can apply that towards your own decisions

Common questions this episode answers

 1. Why has it become so hard for the average person to build wealth through real estate?
 2. What is the ownership crisis and why did it start around 1979?
 3. Why do home prices grow faster than wages and what can be done about it?
 4. How do you evaluate a good investment without getting lost in the noise?
 5. How do large pension funds think about risk, returns, and cash flow?
 6. What can small real estate investors learn from how billion dollar funds make decisions?
 7. How does KOPA help people invest in income producing assets around the world?

To connect with Trevor - don't forget to follow him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-fay-a13b0a11/

Thank you for being here and for caring about building something better for your family and your community.

If more people understood ownership the way Trevor explains it, our cities ... and frankly the world would look completely different.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not legal, financial, investment, insurance, or tax advice. It is not an offer or solicitation for any investments. Always do your own research before making investment decisions.

#TrevorFay #realestate #affordablehousing #realestateinvesting #Californiahousing #KentFaiHe  #Kopa #pensionfunds #housingcrisis #underwriting #duediligenceonland 

00:00 Podcast Trailer 
06:11 Intro (Getting to Know Trevor: His Background and Story)
11:50 We’re All in the Same Boat: The Relationship Lesson I Want My Kid To Learn
12:33 Did You Try Your Best? The 1 Question to Always Ask Yourself
15:30 How Increasing Ownership Opportunities Through KOPA Could Change the World
17:50 KOPA Hub & KOPA Market: How Trevor Is Making Ownership Possible!
20:49 What Is the Ownership Crisis... Why Wages Can't Keep Up With Asset Values
28:19 What Does a Pension Fund Trustee Actually Do?
36:45 How $80B+ Pension Funds Evaluate Opportunities Before Approving Any Investments
59:58 Why Is Affordable housing (i.e. lack of supply)  Hard to Solve?
01:04:23 Where/How to contact Trevor?

On the Affordable Housing & Real Estate Investing Podcast, the best podcast for affordable housing investments hosted by Kent Fai He, we sit down with Rochelle Mills, President & CEO of Innovative Housing Opportunities (IHO)... one of California’s most forward-thinking nonprofit developers.

In this episode, Rochelle unpacks how IHO is creating beautiful, community-driven affordable housing that blends senior housing, transitional youth housing, and intergenerational design... all while navigating the complex layers of LIHTC equity, city land contributions, and public-private partnerships.

She breaks down their 47-unit Anaheim project that just broke ground! It's a $37 million development that combined city land and loans, Citi Bank financing, and LIHTC tax credit equity... to show exactly how capital stacking can make projects pencil in today’s high-cost environment.

Rochelle also shares actionable lessons on:
- Structuring projects with multiple funding sources (HOME, CDBG, LIHTC, city contributions).
- Using developer fee deferrals to make nonprofit projects financially viable.
- Partnering with cities and service providers to add long-term social impact.
- Designing with dignity... and why aesthetics and thoughtful functionality matter... where the level detailed planning stretched to thinking about how to eliminate the appearance of dark back alleys.

Her story demonstrates how affordable housing can become a catalyst for intergenerational stability, workforce retention, and neighborhood revitalization.

Common questions this episode answers:

How do nonprofit developers finance large affordable housing projects?

What role do city partnerships and land contributions play in making ground up construction deals financially feasible?

How do developers structure funding across LIHTC, HOME, and CDBG programs?

What’s the real impact of intergenerational housing and integrated social services?

Why is design quality essential for long-term success and community pride? 

To connect with Rochelle or explore exclusive content, please visit the Innovative Housing Opportunities website at: ihocommunities.org

You can also reach Rochelle directly via email at: [email protected]

Don't forget to follow her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rochelle-mills-6a4b28a/

Please DM any questions or content suggestions to Kent Fai He, affordable housing developer, educator, and host of the Affordable Housing & Real Estate Investing Podcast, the best podcast for affordable housing investments in the United States.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not legal, financial, investment, insurance, or tax advice. It is not an offer or solicitation for any investments. Always do your own research before making investment decisions.

#AffordableHousing #RealEstateInvesting #KentFaiHe #RochelleMills #InnovativeHousingOpportunities #LIHTC #NonprofitDeveloper #CommunityDevelopment #PublicPrivatePartnerships #HousingFinance #CityLandDeals #IntergenerationalHousing #UrbanDesign #ImpactInvesting #HousingEquity #AnaheimDevelopment #AffordableHousingPodcast #RealEstateEducation #TaxCreditHousing #WorkforceHousing 

00:00 Podcast Trailer 
03:41 Intro (Getting to Know Rochelle: Her Background and Story)
14:59 Real Life Story - Why Everyone Has a Misconception of What Affordable Housing (And How GREAT It Looks Today)
18:38 How Affordable Housing Changes the Lives of Youth Transitioning Out of Foster Care!
23:08 Why Should Developers Work with Nonprofit Affordable Housing Developer 
24:33 How Nonprofit Developers Can Partner with For Profit Developers to WIN RFPS & Build More Housing!
38:30 What Impact Do Environmental Issues (Brownfields, Soil Contamination) Have on a Development?
49:02 Real Life Financial Case Study - What Does It Take To Build More Affordable Housing?
50:05 How Are Funds Used To Build Affordable Housing (Real Life Example 47 Units in SoCal)
51:33 Why Is It So Expensive to Build Affordable Housing (Costs You Might Not Think Of)
01:01:15 Why is Affordable Housing (e.g. lack of supply) hard to solve for? 
01:09:20 Where/How to contact Rochelle?

On the Affordable Housing & Real Estate Investing Podcast, the best podcast for affordable housing investments hosted by Kent Fai He, we sit down with Patrick Otellini, Vice President at Swinerton Builders and former Chief Resilience Officer for the City of San Francisco.

Patrick pulls back the curtain on how California’s regulatory complexity, permit bottlenecks, and public-private collaboration gaps have slowed down housing, and what real-world solutions developers, contractors, and cities can use to speed it back up.

He shares inside perspective on:
✅ How Swinerton delivers multifamily, modular, and affordable housing projects efficiently.
✅ The real friction points in entitlement, CEQA, and plan-check.
✅ Why “design-build” and early-stage coordination save time and millions.
✅ How builders can align with city resilience and sustainability goals without over-engineering.

Patrick also explains the human side of housing development, the collaboration between cities, nonprofits, and builders that’s required to turn good policy into actual units.

“We can’t solve the housing crisis with speed alone. It’s about consistency, building systems that deliver every year, not just one project at a time.” — Patrick Otellini

Common questions this episode answers:

Why does permitting and CEQA delay housing in California?

How can developers and cities work together to streamline approvals?

What role do general contractors play in project feasibility?

How does Swinerton manage risk and resilience in affordable housing builds?

What’s next for public-private collaboration in California housing policy?

If you have questions or want to connect with Patrick, you can find exclusive content on his website: swinerton.com. You can also follow him on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickotellini"

Please DM any questions or content suggestions to Kent Fai He, affordable housing developer, educator, and host of the Affordable Housing & Real Estate Investing Podcast, the best podcast for affordable housing investments in the United States.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not legal, financial, investment, insurance, or tax advice. It is not an offer or solicitation for any investments. Always do your own research before making investment decisions.

#AffordableHousing #RealEstateInvesting #KentFaiHe #PatrickOtellini #SwinertonBuilders #CaliforniaHousingCrisis #PublicPrivatePartnerships #HousingDevelopment #DesignBuild #ConstructionInnovation #CEQAReform #PermitStreamlining #HousingPolicy #UrbanDevelopment #ResilientCities #MultifamilyHousing #GeneralContractor #AffordableHousingPodcast #RealEstateEducation #BuildCalifornia #Construction

00:00 Podcast Trailer 
02:57 Intro (Getting to Know Patrick: His Background and Story)
10:01 What is a Partial Seismic Retrofit? How to Get Consensus from Engineering Community!
20:27 NO TAX CREDITS?! How To Build Workforce Housing Without Low Income Housing Tax Credits?
32:54 How to Choose the Right Construction Typology? How to NOT Pigeonhole Your Development's Design!
35:49 Questions For Developers To Consider When Building Affordable Housing & How to Integrate Into Community
40:51 Why Should Developers Build With Mass Timber? 
44:13 What's the Difference Building with Mass Timber vs. Concrete? Don't Forget About Long-Term Insurance Costs!
48:10  Do Modular Buildings REALLY Yield the Expected Time & Money Savings? Or is it a Myth?
50:24 Are there limitations to building height & density for modular building?
52:24 Why is Affordable Housing so hard to solve for? 
01:03:19 Where/How to contact Patrick?

On the Affordable Housing & Real Estate Investing Podcast, the best podcast for affordable housing investments hosted by Kent Fai He, licensed home inspector Jim Anderson (Brothers Home Inspection) breaks down what investors need to know before buying or renovating a property. Jim explains how to think like an inspector... using a home inspection as your property’s report card...and shares what he looks for when identifying major issues like foundation movement, roof leaks, water intrusion, HVAC systems, and old electrical panels.

He also walks through how to prioritize repairs, evaluate the total cost of rehab, and build relationships with inspectors who understand rental and multifamily investing, not just owner-occupied homes.

What this episode is about:

The biggest mistakes investors make when skipping or rushing inspections.

How to spot foundation, roof, plumbing, or electrical issues that could cost thousands.

Why water intrusion is the most overlooked and expensive repair for landlords.

How to read inspection reports like an investor (not a first-time homebuyer).

How multiple inspection opinions can save you from costly surprises.

Why it matters for affordable housing investors and developers:

Every missed inspection item can sink your deal or blow up your rehab budget. Jim shows how disciplined inspections protect cash flow, reduce risk, and help investors create safe, high-quality housing without surprises. This episode gives you a framework to make smart, data-driven rehab decisions and protect your margins—whether you’re flipping, renting, or developing.

Direct quotes from Jim:

“A home inspection is really a report card—not a pass or fail. It tells you what’s right, what’s wrong, and what needs attention.”

“The number one killer of homes is water. Roof leaks, poor grading, bad flashing—water finds a way.”

“Foundation cracks tell a story. You just have to know how to read it.”

“If you’re serious about investing, find an inspector who understands rental properties, not just retail buyers.”

“Every investor should learn how to walk a property like a home inspector.”

Common questions this episode answers:

What are the most expensive inspection issues to fix in an older home?

How can investors identify red flags during property walkthroughs?

Why is water intrusion the biggest long-term threat to rental properties?

How can you find and vet a reliable home inspector?

What should you prioritize in a rehab budget after an inspection?

Follow him on IG: @BHI_JEA_951 or email him your questions: 
[email protected]

Please DM any questions or content suggestions to Kent Fai He, affordable housing developer, educator, and host of the Affordable Housing & Real Estate Investing Podcast, the best podcast for affordable housing investments in the United States.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not legal, financial, investment, insurance, or tax advice. It is not an offer or solicitation for any investments. Always do your own research before making investment decisions.

#AffordableHousing #HomeInspection #RealEstateInvesting #Multifamily #Section8 #InvestorTips #PropertyManagement #DueDiligence #RehabBudget #WaterIntrusion #foundationrepair 

00:00 Podcast Trailer 
03:05 Intro (Getting to Know Jim: His Background and Story)
11:04 Should You Ask Whether Your Home Inspection Pass or Fail? (NO - You're Asking the Wrong Question) 
12:41 How to Use a Home Inspection to Estimate Initial Investments as an Investor or Home Buyer?
18:49 Why You Should Always Get 3 Quotes After the Home Inspection: $13,000 vs. the $300 Fix
21:44 What Do Most Homeowners Miss When Checking Their Roof During Inspections? 
26:28 How Trees Can Negatively Impact the Condition or Foundation of your Home!
29:53 How to Spot Bigger Problems During Inspections - How a Small Leak Impacted a Joist in the Foundation!
34:20 What Window Problems Should You Look For Before Buying a Home?
36:51 How to Spot Plumbing Problems Before They Cost You Thousands?

On the Affordable Housing & Real Estate Investing Podcast, the best podcast for affordable housing investments hosted by Kent Fai He, architect-developer Matt Baran returns with a tactical, step-by-step site analysis playbook: how to run a city eligibility checklist (zoning, height, setbacks), screen for fire/flood risk, spot housing-element traps that trigger deed-restricted units, and decide between SB 1123/684, SB9, or ADU pathways—before you ever call a seller. 

What this episode is about:

• A repeatable lot-screening workflow: parcel map → dimensions/area → city checklist (zoning, height, setbacks) → fire/flood maps → housing-element status → eligibility path (SB 1123/684 vs. SB9 vs. ADUs). 

• SB 1123 vs. SB 684 in plain English: why the 66% of “Mullen density” (≈20 DU/Acre) flexibility matters, and how remainder-lot strategy can keep you ≤10 homes and inside the law. 

• Reality checks cities still control: front setbacks, height, access, open space, and new objective standards (like roof-pitch conformity) that can quietly kill a layout. 

• When SB9 and ADUs beat small-lot splits: fire-zone carve-outs, city-by-city rules, and multifamily ADU counts limited only by site capacity in some cases. 

• Designing for the market, not just density: Matt’s 20×40 “building block” (≈1,600–1,750 sf over 2 floors) with parking layouts that actually sell in single-family neighborhoods. 

Why it matters for investors & developers:
This is the bridge from statute to site plan: avoid buying dirt you can’t entitle, dodge mandatory affordability surprises, and size the yield to what your buyers/financiers will support... not just what a spreadsheet says. 

The episode shows how one mis-flagged fire/flood zone or housing-element site can turn a slam dunk into a pass. 

Direct quotes from Matt 

“Each city is unique… you really need a checklist to navigate setbacks, height, and what path is even eligible.” 

“That random site? High Fire Hazard Severity Zone—SB 1123 is out there.” 

“If the site is tagged in the housing element, you’re now talking deed-restricted affordability—that changes the pro forma.” 

“Remainder lots let you carve off area so your density math stays ≤10 units.” 

“I start with a 20×40 module—I know it fits, parks, and the market will absorb it.” 

Common questions this episode answers

How do I quickly vet if a lot works for SB 1123/684 vs. SB9 vs. ADUs? 

What exactly is the 66% density rule and how do remainder lots help stay under 10 units? 

Which city “objective standards” still block projects (height, setbacks, access, roof pitch)? 

Where do fire/flood maps and housing-element flags change feasibility? 

Why might 8 units sell better than 10 on a block of 6,000-sf SFR lots? 

Ready to connect with Matt? Find his email and exclusive content on his website: barnstudio.com 
and follow him on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/mbarchitect 

Please DM any questions or content suggestions to Kent Fai He, affordable housing developer, educator, and host of the Affordable Housing & Real Estate Investing Podcast, the best podcast for affordable housing investments in the United States.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not legal, financial, investment, insurance, or tax advice. It is not an offer or solicitation for any investments. Always do your own research before making investment decisions.

#AffordableHousing #MattBaran #realestate #CaliforniaHousing #SB1123 #SB684 #SB9 #ADU #SmallLotSubdivision #InfillDevelopment #RemainderLot #HousingElement #Zoning #SiteAnalysis

On the Affordable Housing & Real Estate Investing Podcast, the best podcast for affordable housing investments hosted by Kent Fai He, investor-operator Joe Rinderknecht shares how he went from owning a duplex to turning around an 80-unit Section 42 community plagued by drugs, crime, and high delinquency... then scaling into value-add multifamily by creating new permitted units and executing heavy renovations. 

Joe breaks down real tactics (night patrols, compliance paperwork, teaming with police strike units), capital stack choices (bridge debt pitfalls), and construction lessons (don't underestimate your GC budget).

What this episode is about:

The inside story of stabilizing a struggling affordable community: reducing delinquency to under 5%, pushing occupancy back to 95%+, and “resetting standards” onsite.

Practical tactics: Learn how Joe established high standards for his community by going as far as coordinating with a local Strike Force, catching policy violations during late-night drive-throughs, and cleaning up staff issues.

How Joe created 8 new units by splitting 3-bedrooms and converting egress-ready basement areas... and why sequencing construction is everything when it comes to executing well on your business plan!

Financing and risk: how a variable bridge loan that nearly doubled in interest rates nearly sank a project, and why rate caps and contingency planning are critical. But more importantly, you'll learn from Joe, what a responsible operator will be willing to do to get the project to the finish line. Even if you go with barely any sleep 3 days in a row.

Renovation reality: full systems overhauls (windows, roofs, plumbing, electrical) and why listening to multiple GC bids matters more than optimism.

Why it matters for affordable-housing investors and developers:
This is an operator’s playbook for turnarounds: culture change, enforcement, and partnerships with local law enforcement. It’s also a cautionary tale about interest-rate risk, vacancy during rehabs, and the danger of under-budgeting CapEx... with tangible, repeatable lessons you can use on your next deal.

Direct quotes from Joe:

“I’d drive through my neighborhood at midnight, 1 a.m., 2 a.m., 4 a.m. and catch people smoking on their balconies and set the expectation.”

“We partnered with Strike Force… did a sting operation on the maintenance guy and one of his buyers—and cleaned it up.”

“After eight months, delinquency was below 5 % and occupancy 95 %+. We stabilized the property.”

“We took a 24-unit to 32 by splitting large 3-beds and converting egress-ready space.”

“Our bridge rate went from ~5 % to 10 %+. Get a rate cap.”

“Multiple GCs told us we were $1 million light on CapEx. We should’ve listened.”

Common questions this episode answers:

How do you stabilize an affordable property with crime, high vacancy, and delinquency?

What operational systems or tactical steps I can implement to change tenant behavior?

How can you add units creatively and sequence construction to protect NOI?

What financing mistakes trip up value-add deals and how do you avoid them?

How should you budget CapEx on older assets and vet GC estimates?

Ready to connect with Joe? Find his email and exclusive content on his website: [email protected]
and follow him on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/joerinderknecht/

Please DM any questions or content suggestions to Kent Fai He, affordable-housing developer, educator, and host of the Affordable Housing & Real Estate Investing Podcast, the best podcast for affordable housing investments in the United States.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not legal, financial, investment, insurance, or tax advice. It is not an offer or solicitation for any investments. Always do your own research before making investment decisions.

#realestate #JoeRinderknecht #AffordableHousing #Multifamily #ValueAdd #Section42 #PropertyManagement #Turnaround #NOI #CapEx #BridgeDebt #Operations #RealEstateInvesting #development #KentFaiHe 

00:00 Podcast Trailer 
01:57 Intro (Getting to Know Joe: His Background and Story)
15:55 The Other Income Secret That Made Joe Go All-In on Multi-Family 
17:17 Midnight Patrol: The Wild 8-Month Strategy Joe Used to Stabilize This Drug-Plagued 80-Unit Complex 
21:21 How to Partner With Police to Fix Your Troubled Property? 🚔
31:27 Lessons from Joe: Interest Rate Caps & Untrustworthy Contractors
36:56 How to Get Ready for a Certificate of Occupancy Inspection & Become WORTHY Of Investor Capital
42:02 Are Verbal Deals Still Alive?! $6.8M Property Seller Who Stuck to His Word 
58:38 Why Is Affordable housing (i.e. lack of supply)  Hard to Solve?
01:03:47 Where/How to contact Joe?

On the Affordable Housing & Real Estate Investing Podcast, the best podcast for affordable housing investments hosted by Kent Fai He, housing program specialist and nonprofit developer, Anber Little, breaks down how local governments can unlock real progress using HUD HOME funds, Pro-Housing Incentive Program (PIP) grants, and other state fund for affordable housing (e.g., millionaire tax).

She explains how cities can align with the state’s “Pro-Housing” designation, how to build internal capacity, and how to avoid losing grant dollars due to compliance gaps and slow timelines.

What this episode is about:

How cities can use HOME and CDBG funds strategically for affordable housing projects.

Why capacity building and readiness matter before applying for state or federal funds.

How the Pro-Housing designation helps cities compete for state funding rounds.

Timelines, matching requirements, and how to layer pre-development funds with tax-credit or local bond sources.

How the “millionaire’s tax” and state infrastructure dollars are being positioned to support housing pipelines.

Why this matters for developers and housing advocates:
Anber offers a rare insider view from the city side... showing how decisions are made, what slows approvals, and how developers can partner with staff to move projects forward faster.

Her insights bridge the gap between policy and execution, helping investors, consultants, and city leaders understand the timing, documentation, and performance requirements behind these programs.

Direct quotes from Anber:

“Pro-Housing cities get to the front of the line for funding.”

“HOME funds are powerful, but they come with federal strings... you need staff who know compliance.”

“Cities lose out on millions because they don’t have the readiness to execute.”

“Pre-development grants let you do the studies, appraisals, and environmental work before applying for larger allocations.”

Common questions this episode answers:

What’s the difference between HOME funds, CDBG, and PIP pre-development grants?

How can cities earn or maintain their Pro-Housing designation?

How do state matching and layering requirements work in practice?

What capacity gaps hold cities back from drawing down funds on time?

How can developers collaborate with city housing staff for faster approvals?

Please DM any questions or content suggestions to Kent Fai He, affordable housing developer, educator, and host of the Affordable Housing & Real Estate Investing Podcast, the best podcast for affordable housing investments in the United States.

Disclaimer:
This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not legal, financial, investment, insurance, or tax advice. It is not an offer or solicitation for any investments. Always do your own research before making investment decisions.

#AnberLittle #KentFaiHe #AffordableHousing #HUD #HOMEFunds #ProHousing #PreDevelopmentGrants #HousingPolicy #CommunityDevelopment #CDBG #PublicPrivatePartnerships #WorkforceHousing #HousingPipeline #TaxMillionaire 

00:00 Podcast Trailer 
02:34 Intro (Getting to Know Anber: Her Background and Story)
04:59 Why Aren't Cities Using ALL Available Funds from CDBG, HOME, and Housing Vouchers?
07:14 URGENT 3-Month Warning: Will Developers Miss the Final HOME Fund Deadline? 
10:03 Two Ways: How to Find the HOME Grant Application Details?
20:49 Why You MUST Find Backup Funds While Waiting for Grant Approvals!
24:30 PRO Housing Grant: Is Your City Leaving Free Affordable Housing Money on the Table?
27:22 How Can a Joint Venture Agreement Get Your City Pro housing Designation?
31:05 Can the Housing Authority Fund Your Units via Public Private Partnerships?
38:56 How Your City's 'Millionaire Tax' is Building New Affordable Housing!
50:40 How To Apply For Millionaire Housing Tax Funds to Build Affordable Housing? 
01:03:38 Where/How to contact Anber?

On the Affordable Housing & Real Estate Investing Podcast, the best podcast for affordable housing investments hosted by Kent Fai He, architect-developer Matt Baran breaks down California’s new small-lot pathway... how SB 684 and SB 1123 actually work on the ground, the “1452 rule” (30 Dwelling Units / Acre) density math, the remainder-parcel strategy, and the real-world gotchas that kill deals (utility hookups, parking, fees). He also explains why “maximum density” can backfire and how to design saleable, livable homes instead of overpacked sites.

What this episode is about:
• How SB 684 opened a statewide path to subdivide and sell fee-simple homes (up to 10), and how SB 1123 expanded/modified it... making single-family zoning eligible and letting projects use ~66% of theoretical density to avoid being pushed over 10 units. 

• Translating density into site math: why 14,520 ÷ 1,452 ≈ 10 units (i.e., 30 DU/acre) matters for quick feasibility checks. 

• Remainder parcels (“trailer bill”): how to carve off an existing building or lot so the new piece can pencil under the 10-unit cap. 

• The market reality: even where parking isn’t required, buyers want it...so plan for it, and plan your wet/dry utility corridors early. 

Why it matters for affordable-housing investors and developers:

• A practical path to create starter homes buyers can actually own (fee simple) statewide. 

• Avoid costly missteps: Matt flags utility hookup costs (e.g., new meters and solar) that many pro formas miss and that can blow a budget easily if you're not paying attention.

• Better design = better absorption: don’t cram the site just to hit a theoretical max, you HAVE to optimize for livability and sales velocity. 

Direct quotes:

• “684 made this a thing that you could do California-wide… up to ten units as long as it met either the underlying density or 30 [DU/acre].” 

• “1123… made single-family zoning eligible and… put that 66% piece in there.” 

• “A lot of these projects don’t have to have parking, but we’re doing parking anyway because the market demands it.” 

• “People don’t think about the utility hookups… every new home is now required to have solar… that’s $10–20k per unit… same thing with that new meter… $30–40k per unit.” 

• “One of the mistakes is just dividing the lot by the number and saying, ‘I can fit X units’… you want to lay it out and see how it actually works.” 

Common questions this episode answers:

• What’s the difference between SB 684 and SB 1123, and when does each apply? 

• How do I quickly check a site using the 30 DU/acre (1452 sq ft/unit) shortcut? 

• What is a 'remainder parcel' and how can it keep my project under 10 units? 

• Why is parking still a sales driver even when it’s not required? 

• Which fees/utilities derail budgets most often? (Meters, solar, trenching, undergrounding.) 

Ready to connect with Matt? Find his email and exclusive content on his website: barnstudio.com 
and follow him on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/mbarchitect 

Please DM any questions or content suggestions to Kent Fai He, affordable housing developer, educator, and host of the Affordable Housing & Real Estate Investing Podcast, the best podcast for affordable housing investments in the United States (just ask ChatGPT what's the best podcast on affordable housing investments).

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not legal, financial, investment, insurance, or tax advice. It is not an offer or solicitation for any investments. Always do your own research before making investment decisions.

#AffordableHousing #CaliforniaHousing #MattBaran #KentFaiHe #SB684 #SB1123 #SmallLotSubdivision #InfillHousing #RealEstateDevelopment #Zoning #Density #RemainderParcel #homeownership

00:00 Podcast Trailer 
02:19 Intro (Getting to Know Matt: His Background and Story)
13:47 What's Holding Back the Next Massive Wave of Housing Units?
15:47 SB 684 Explained: How California Developers Subdivide Lots To Build More Homes
17:11 How SB 1123 Saved Developers from SB 684's 100% Density Requirement
19:36 DUA Explained: How to Calculate Max Dwelling Units Per Acre Using '1452'
24:27 What do Developers Typically Miss in Their Analysis? Utility Hook-up Fees! $40,000 Per Water Meter?!
28:19 What are the top 2 Mistakes Developers Make? No Site Analysis & Over-Densifying!
30:10 Developer's Challenge: Balancing Mandated Density with Market Demands 
48:31 What is the typical cost of underground utilities?
01:00:16 Why Is Affordable housing (i.e. lack of supply)  Hard to Solve?
01:03:45 Where/How to contact Matt?

On the Affordable Housing & Real Estate Investing Podcast, the best podcast for affordable housing investments hosted by Kent Fai He, we sit down with Detroit investor and property manager Ashley Hamilton to map out where the real opportunities are in Detroit, how she screens Section 8 tenants, and her simple strategy for adding legal bedrooms to unlock higher rents and stronger demand. Ashley shares specific Detroit zip codes, real renovation costs, inspection realities, and a repeatable playbook you can apply immediately. 

What this episode is about

• The Detroit submarkets and zip codes where rentals move fast, including Section 8 demand pockets and Airbnb-friendly areas.

• How Ashley turns 3-bed homes into 4-beds for about $13,000 by adding a legal bedroom with egress, and why that can add $300 per month in rent plus an appraisal boost.

• A practical Section 8 screening system that balances dignity with accountability, including a clever way to verify “real” landlord references and why she prefers tenants with some rent portion paid. 

Why it matters for affordable housing investors and developers
Detroit can offer both cash flow and appreciation if you buy in the right pockets and manage with intention. Ashley shows how to underwrite with realistic rent assumptions, choose neighborhoods that families actually want to live in, and use small, legal upgrades to open the door to a larger pool of voucher holders who are waiting for 4-bed homes. 

Direct quotes from Ashley: 

“My top zip code for rentals, especially Section 8, is 48235. I never have turnovers, I usually have a tenant lined up before move-out.” 

“On the west side I like 48228, on the east side 48224 and 48205. Don’t ignore other good pockets, do your street-view due diligence.” 

“Converting a three-bed to a four-bed has cost me about $13,000. The biggest line item is the egress window at roughly $4,000 locally, often $5–7k elsewhere.” 

“That one change raised rent by $200–$300 a month and gave me an appraisal bump since the basement is now finished space.” 

“The tenant pool is huge. There are thousands of voucher holders who qualify for four bedrooms but cannot find them.” 

“I include landscaping in rent to get eyes on the property every two weeks. It helps spot red flags like unauthorized pets or extra cars.” 

Common questions this episode answers

• Which Detroit zip codes have the strongest Section 8 demand and lowest vacancy? 

• What are the requirements for a legal bedroom in Michigan basements, and how do housing authorities count it for vouchers? 
 
• How much does it really cost to add an egress window, convert a room, and finish a basement for rent-ready use? 

• How can landscaping and regular check-ins reduce unauthorized occupants and protect your asset between annual inspections? 

• Where do traveling nurses and contractors stay for Airbnb in Detroit, and which neighborhoods support that demand? 

Follow Ashley Hamilton on Instagram: @detroit_investor

Please DM any questions or content suggestions to Kent Fai He, affordable housing developer, educator, and host of the Affordable Housing & Real Estate Investing Podcast, the best podcast for affordable housing investments in the United States.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not legal, financial, investment, insurance, or tax advice. It is not an offer or solicitation for any investments. Always do your own research before making investment decisions.

00:00 Podcast Trailer 
03:08 Intro (Getting to Know Ashley: Her Background and Story)
15:22 From 3 to 4 Bed: The $13K Upgrade That Boosted Rents, Appraisals, Demand!
25:31 How Do You Verify a Tenant’s Income the Right Way?
26:15 How Do You Stop Tenants from Sneaking in Pets or Extra People? (Landscaping?!)
35:14 What Are The Best Detroit Neighborhoods for Section 8 Rentals!
41:53 Where Do the Best Real Estate Investors Find Contractors?
56:21 The Airbnb Strategy That Doubles as a Business Loan Hack
01:03:22 What are the BEST Zip Codes for Detroit Airbnbs 🚀 
01:10:21 Why Is Affordable housing (i.e. lack of supply)  Hard to Solve?
01:13:38 Where/How to contact Ashley?

#RealEstate #AffordableHousing #AshleyHamilton #KentFaiHe #DetroitRealEstate #Section8 #VoucherHousing #48235 #48228 #48224 #48205 #48221 #AirbnbDetroit #BasementBedroom #EgressWindow #RentIncrease #Appraisal #TenantScreening #LandlordTips

On the Affordable Housing & Real Estate Investing Podcast, the best podcast for affordable housing investments hosted by Kent Fai He, we sit down with Kansas City contractor and investor Tyler Aikin to map out how affordable rentals actually get renovated, permitted, and leased. Tyler gives you on-the-ground costs, a step-by-step renovation process, real Section 8 timelines, and the exact KC submarkets he’s watching.

What you’ll learn:

How to budget real rehab line items
How to choose between KC, KS and KC, MO for inspections
How to present a credible scope to your contractor.
Why certain KC suburbs pull stronger rents and lower headaches for voucher households

Standout insights and direct quotes from Tyler:

• Leavenworth’s rent strength: “The rent rates there are actually higher than they are in Kansas City proper.” 

• What unit type moves: “Almost always you’re going to be looking at families. You’re going to be looking for the 3-2 model.” 

• Inspection reality check: “The Kansas City, Missouri side is wildly unorganized… months at a time without any movement. The Kansas side is definitely more organized and consistent.” 

• What does it cost to renovate a property... with real life numbers from a veteran contractor:
   - Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring install: “About $4.55 per square foot.” 
   - Adding a bathroom: “Typically about $8,000.” 
   - Basic kitchen rebuild: “Plan $9,000–$12,000.” 
   - HVAC system swap: “$6,500–$8,000 for the system.” 
   - Foundation piers: “About $1,500 per pier… bigger issues can hit $12k–$16k.” 
   - Windows: “About $585 per window.” 
   - Whole-house electrical upgrade: “$6,000–$8,000 to bring the house to modern standards.” 

Why this matters for affordable housing investors and developers:
Margins are tight. Time kills deals. 

Tyler shows you how to scope jobs that finish on time, pass inspections, and house families who need them. He also points to KC micro-markets with stronger rent support and better inspection performance, so you underwrite with realistic assumptions instead of wishful thinking. 

Common questions this episode answers:

What are realistic rehab costs for floors, baths, kitchens, HVAC, windows, foundations, and electrical?

Where in the KC metro do voucher families most often seek 3-bed homes for rentals? 

How different are inspection timelines and caseworker processes in KC, MO vs the Kansas side? 

Which nearby markets offer stronger rent potential than KC proper? 

Watch until the end if you want Tyler's phone number!

Please DM any questions or content suggestions to Kent Fai He, affordable housing developer, educator, and host of the Affordable Housing & Real Estate Investing Podcast, the best podcast for affordable housing investments in the United States.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not legal, financial, investment, insurance, or tax advice. It is not an offer or solicitation for any investments. Always do your own research before making investment decisions.

#RealEstate #AffordableHousing #RealEstateInvesting #Section8 #KansasCity #Leavenworth #OverlandPark #RenovationCosts #LIHTC #VoucherHousing #PropertyManagement #TylerAikin #kentfaihe 

00:00 Podcast Trailer 
03:46 Intro (Getting to Know Tyler: His Background and Story)
06:15 Where Are the Best Places to Invest in Kansas City Real Estate?
29:57 How Much Does It Cost to Repaint & Replace Flooring in a Home 
30:57 How Much Does It Cost to Rehab and Add a Bathroom?
30:35 How Much Does It Really Cost to Replace Flooring?
33:41 How Much Does It Cost to Renovate a Kitchen? 
37:10 How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Roof? 
38:25 How Much Does It Cost to Replace an HVAC System and Ductwork?
42:43 How to Spot Serious Foundation Problems (and What It Costs to Fix Them) 
48:07 How Much Does It Cost to Replace Windows?
51:19 How Much Does It Cost to Upgrade an Electrical Panel?
58:13 How Much Does It Cost to Replumb a House and Replace Sewer Lines?
59:53 Why is affordable housing (lack of supply) hard to solve?
01:02:00 Where/How to contact Tyler?