Copyright: Rasulov
NMHC and NAA are looking for your input by way of a short member survey on HUD’s recently released proposed rule that would alter the way Fair Market Rents (FMRs) are set. Ultimately, you could potentially be directly affected by any change to the FMR methodology.
Why It Matters
FMRs are currently
used by Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) nationwide to determine payment
standards for Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers. However, under the proposed
rule, FMRs would no longer be set at the metro area level, but instead by zip
code.
HUD’s goal is to
further deconcentrate poverty by providing larger voucher amounts in
higher-rent zip codes. These finer-detailed geographic definitions - known as
Small Area FMRs (SAFMRs) - have been implemented in six metro areas so far. The
proposed change would result in some FMRs increasing and others decreasing.
Earlier this
month, NMHC and NAA staff attended a HUD briefing where department officials
noted that there are currently 31 metro areas that would qualify for a switch to SAFMRs, but PHAs will also
be allowed to voluntarily enter the program.
Take
the survey now to ensure your voice is heard! We will be submitting
comments to HUD based on the survey results.
We also encourage
you to submit
your own comments individually.
Questions?
Please contact
NMHC Director of Research Caitlin Walter at cwalter@nmhc.org or (202) 974-2343 with any questions or
for additional information.
Staff Resource
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