Multi-Family Property Tax Exemption (MFTE)
This program encourages developers to create more housing in our City. It’s also a way for tenants to find affordable units.
About the program
The Multi-Family Property Tax Exemption (MFTE) program provides tax exemptions for new multi-family housing within our City’s Urban Center boundary. The purpose of the program is to encourage developers to build more housing in this area.
MFTE Manual
For full program details and requirements, read the MFTE Program Manual(PDF, 942KB).
Types of housing developments that qualify
The MFTE program offers tax exemptions for two types of housing developments.
Type one: 12-Year Affordable Housing Program
Affordable housing developments can receive a 12- year tax exemption. To qualify, you must agree to rent or sell at least 20% of the units as affordable housing units to low- and moderate-income households. Also, the property must meet any City requirements for affordability and income eligibility.
Type two: 8-Year Market-Rate Housing Program
Market-rate housing developments can receive an 8-year tax exemption. There are no additional requirements for this tax exemption.
Where the MFTE applies
You can only apply for the MFTE program if your project is within the Urban Center boundary.
Information for tenants
As a tenant, you can apply for an affordable unit in a building that is tax exempt under the MFTE program. Learn more about the requirements and how to apply.
Current MFTE properties
How to qualify for an affordable unit
To qualify for affordable housing units under the MFTE program, you’ll need to meet requirements related to your household size and income. We update these requirements each year based on median family income levels from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Eligibility for low-income units
You’ll qualify if all members of your household combined have a gross (pre-tax) income that is up to 80% of the median family income. This is based on your household size.
In 2026, a family of four earning up to $125,680 would qualify. For other household sizes and incomes, see the Tables: Income requirements and rent limits section.
Eligibility for moderate-income units
You’ll qualify if all members of your household combined have a gross (pre-tax) income between 80% and 115% of the median family income. This is based on your household size.
In 2026, a family of four earning between $125,680 and $189,060 would qualify. For other household sizes and incomes, see the Tables: Income requirements and rent limits section.
Rent limits for affordable units
If you qualify for an affordable unit, there are limits to what you’ll pay for rent, utilities, and other housing expenses. This is based on the size of the unit and your household income.
See the Tables: Income requirements and rent limits section for details.
Tables: Income requirements and rent limits
Use the following tables to see if you meet the household income requirements and how much you would pay in rent:
You can also view these tables in PDF format: 2026 MFTE Income Requirements and Rent Limits(PDF, 120KB)
For instructions on using these tables, see our guide on How to Read the MFTE Income and Rent Limits Chart(PDF, 4KB).
How tenants can apply for affordable units
To apply, you’ll need to give documentation to the landlord so they can check whether you’re eligible. If you qualify, if you’ll also need to reapply every year.
You can ask the landlord for more information about how to apply.
Developer application and reporting documents
Before construction
If you’re a developer interested in the MFTE program, you’ll need to apply for a Multi-Family Property Tax Exemption Conditional Certificate.
To help you prepare, you can find a checklist on our permits and land use applications page.
When you’re ready to apply, visit our permitting portal.
After construction
You can request a Final Certificate of Tax Exemption once you have:
- MFTE Conditional Certificate
- Certificate of occupancy
After construction
You can request a Final Certificate of Tax Exemption once you have:
- MFTE Conditional Certificate
- Certificate of occupancy
Annual reporting
For the next eight or 12 years (depending on the length of your exemption), you’ll need to file an annual report to confirm your property still complies with your contract.
MFTE forms