About the Seattle Office of Housing

Overview

The Seattle Office of Housing (OH) increases opportunities for people of all incomes to live in our city. We manage investments in affordable housing and programs to fund the preservation and production of affordable homes in Seattle. We oversee compliance on the homes we invest in to ensure that residents live in safety and care. We establish long-term strategic plans, develop and implement policy-based tools, and address housing-related aspects of citywide land use and community development planning. We also provide home repair and weatherization programs for lower-income residents.

Mission

To invest in creating strong, healthy communities, prevent displacement, and increase opportunities for people of all income levels to live in Seattle.

Vision

Everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to call home.

Programs

• The Rental Housing Program: The Office of Housing supports the preservation and production of affordable rental housing through long-term loans to mission-based multifamily developers in Seattle. All buildings that receive funding through OH are inspected by the Asset Management team to ensure quality, health, and safety.
• Planning and Policies: The Office of Housing is the lead agency in the City of Seattle for affordable housing, and works with City Council and the Mayor's Office to advise on policies, track housing affordability data, and manage programs such as Incentive Zoning and the Multifamily Tax Exemption Program.
• Home Improvement Programs: The Office of Housing assists first-time home buyers in achieving their dream through our  Homeownership Program and existing income-qualified homeowners improve and maintain their homes through the HomeWise Weatherization Program (single-family and multifamily) and Home Repair Loan Program.

Impact

The Office of Housing has a long history of creating a more equitable and affordable community through affordable housing investments.