California Debt Limit Allocation Committee

Waiver of Rent per Square Foot Requirement

When reviewing Market Studies, the rent per square foot test may be waived on the Market Study Matrix under certain conditions for acquisition/rehabilitation projects. The following factors may be taken into consideration for a waiver of the rent per square foot. Requests for a waiver to the rent per square foot requirement should be submitted to the CDLAC Executive Director in writing.

For market rate projects that will be converted to rent restricted projects:

  • How many existing tenants will income qualify under the new project structure?
  • How do proposed maximum rents compare to rents currently paid by tenants?

For projects that are rent restricted prior to acquisition/rehabilitation:

  • What percentage of existing tenants will income qualify after rehabilitation?
  • What is the likelihood that the existing tenants will stay?

For all projects requesting a waiver of the rent per square foot:

  • What is the availability of quality, low-income rental units in the market area?
  • What is the vacancy rate in the market area?
  • Are there any special circumstances?