Multifamily Tax Exemption

The Multifamily Property Tax Exemption (MFTE) Program provides a tax exemption on new multifamily buildings in exchange for setting aside 20-25% of the homes as income- and rent-restricted. By supporting mixed-income residential development in the urban centers, the MFTE program ensures affordabilty as the community grows.

The MFTE program was renewed on November 1st, 2015.  Click here to see the new ordinance.

Owners/developers applying to participate in the MFTE program must commit to implement an Affirmative Marketing Plan. Please refer to the following documents for more information on affirmative marketing and how to comply with these requirements.

  • Affirmative Marketing Info Sheet - This document defines affirmative marketing and describes the requirements for properties participating in the MFTE or Mandatory Housing Affordability (MHA) programs.
  • Letter of Intent - This document indicates a property owner's commitment to implement an Affirmative Marketing Plan. The Letter of Intent must be submitted to the Office of Housing along with the MFTE application, prior to the issuance of the project's first building permit. MFTE applications will not be considered complete without a signed Letter of Intent.
  • Community Based Organizations for Special Outreach - Properties that are required to implement Affirmative Marketing Plans must choose three organizations to direct their special outreach to. This Excel spreadsheet includes contact information for over 60 community based organizations around Seattle.
  • Special Outreach Forms - Properties implementing Affirmative Marketing Plans may use these forms to assist their special outreach efforts.
  • Reporting Forms - Properties that are required to implement Affirmative Marketing Plans must demonstrate compliance by completing these forms and submitting them to the Office of Housing as part of the property's Annual Certification Report.

  Questions regarding Affirmative Marketing requirements should be directed to Joy Hunt (Joy.Hunt2@seattle.gov) at 206.684.0262.