Final Application Deadline: To start receiving the MFTE tax exemption on January 1, 2026, properties must submit a complete MFTE application by July 3, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. PST.
Multifamily Tax Exemption
The Multifamily Property Tax Exemption (MFTE) Program provides a tax exemption on eligible multifamily housing in exchange for income- and rent-restricted units. By supporting mixed-income residential development in the urban centers, the MFTE program ensures affordability as the community grows.
- Developers and owners applying to the MFTE program with questions can contact us for more information.
- Prospective renter applicants can find more information about the MFTE program and other income and rent restricted properties here.
- Current MFTE tenants can find resources on their rights and responsibilities here.
- Property managers at buildings participating in MFTE can find compliance resources here.
Resources
- MFTE Distribution, Comparability and Bedroom Criteria
- SMC 5.73: Multifamily Housing Property Tax Exemption Program
- RCW 84.14: New and Rehabilitated Multiple-Unit Dwellings in Urban Centers
- MFTE Director's Rule - MFTE Unit Distribution in Towers
- MFTE Application Process Overview
- MFTE Residential Targeted Area Map
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 Information Sheet — This document provides an overview of affirmative marketing for properties in the MFTE and Mandatory Housing Affordability (MHA) programs.
- Letter of Intent — Affirmative Marketing — This document indicates a property owner's commitment to implement Affirmative Marketing. The Letter of Intent must be submitted to the Office of Housing along with the MFTE Initial Application. MHA properties may submit this form as part of their MHA Agreement.
- Special Outreach for Affirmative Marketing — Properties implementing Affirmative Marketing should use this form to contact community-based organizations.
- Community-based Organizations for Affirmative Marketing — Rental properties must choose three organizations to direct their special outreach to. This spreadsheet includes contact information for over 60 community-based organizations around Seattle that rental properties may choose from. Homeownership properties should contact OFH_MFTE@seattle.gov 90 days prior to listing their properties for sale for a list of community-based organizations that can assist with affirmative marketing for homeownership.
- Affirmative Marketing Reports — Properties implementing Affirmative Marketing must demonstrate compliance by completing this form and submitting it to the Office of Housing. It is part of the Final Certificate Application for the MFTE program.