1. CDBG and HOME Program Efficiencies – Thoughts on Current Events
Rita Parise
Housing Administrator
Columbus, Ohio

2. Columbus Dispatch, January 19, 2018
One third of Central Ohio homes sold for more than asking price in 2017
Seller’s market – owners want a quick closing
Look at ways to process downpayment assistance faster
If approval process is complete and loan is not FHA, consider closing with documents and check to follow
Have to walk away for homes that sell for more than appraisal value
High construction prices make low and moderate income homeownership more challenging

3. Homeowner Repair
When existing homes had little to no equity, homeowners would only agree to critical home repair if the funding was provided as a grant
With values increasing, a deferred loan is far more acceptable now than it was five years ago
Able to phase out grant programs with less objection

4. Technology Rehab Pro Direct Online contractor bidding – Bid Express
Taking I-pads to the field with Rehab Pro Direct allows our techs to write specs on site saving steps in the process
Staff currently in two locations – using cloud based Rehab Pro, cases are accessible in either location and on I-pads in the field
Online contractor bidding – Bid Express
Bids submitted regardless of weather, traffic, etc.
Accessible in multiple locations
No cost to Columbus

5. Training Program Users
For LIHTC Developers, Columbus offers an annual training and provides the program guidelines, underwriting guidelines, NOFA and application on CD
Saves each developer calling and asking the same questions
Allows questions applicable to many to be answered at the same time
For homeownership developers – onsite trainings to share tips on successful and complete applications
For lenders for downpayment assistance and homeownership development – annual training to review program guidelines and application process
Answers common questions among various lenders
Provides an opportunity to meet program ambassadors face to face

6. When Old is Better Than New
Old Way – Contracts for emergency mechanical repair with several contractors
New Way – Universal Term Contract with a provider using multiple subcontractors
Many households were not being served at all and there was no way to tell until we got complaints
Costs were higher
Back to the Old Way with a twist – one negotiated rate for common elements, individual hourly and unique item rates

7. Moral of the Story
Continue to assess local conditions and adjust programs when necessary
Look for options to use technology when available
Bring program users together to develop team and get all questions answered in one session
Be ready to admit when the new way of doing things is not working and make adjustments