Reflecting on a Week of Connection, Collaboration, and Community
Last week, the Emphasys Housing Locator team had the privilege of attending the 2025 Housing Credit Connect conference in Chicago, hosted by the National Council of State Housing Agencies (NCSHA). As the premier event for professionals working in the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) space, the week offered invaluable insights, conversations, and connections.
With sessions packed with policy updates, compliance strategies, and financial best practices, the experience reinforced a central truth: housing is a collaborative effort, and it takes strong partnerships and ongoing dialogue to drive real impact.
The Power of Networking
One of the biggest takeaways from this year’s conference was the unmatched opportunity for networking. Housing is inherently collaborative, and Housing Credit Connect provided the space to connect with affordable housing leaders across the country from housing finance agencies (HFAs) to property managers and developers.
Whether it was spontaneous hallway chats or meaningful conversations at our booth, each interaction highlighted the importance of relationship-building in moving our mission forward.
Highlights from the Sessions
Our team attended several standout sessions that spoke directly to the challenges and opportunities facing housing professionals today.
Maximizing the Impact of State Tax Credits
This session highlighted how state housing tax credits are increasingly used to fill financing gaps in LIHTC developments. It was inspiring to see one of our longtime partners, the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, leading the discussion and showcasing best practices for structuring and deploying state-level credits.
We were especially proud when a PA Housing board member visited our booth and told us that PAHousingSearch is one of the things their agency is most proud of. It was a powerful moment that underscored the value our platform brings to communities.
Implementing HOTMA in Housing Credit Properties
Another standout session focused on the Housing Opportunity Through Modernization Act (HOTMA) and its implications for income calculations, asset limits, and compliance in multifamily programs. For more information on HOTMA implementation, the HUD HOTMA resource center is a helpful reference.
We were pleased to confirm that Emphasys Housing Locator already meets many of the compliance needs discussed especially on the HFA side reinforcing our commitment to evolving alongside regulatory changes.
The Importance of Ongoing Engagement
Conversations throughout the week also highlighted a common challenge among agencies: staff turnover and the need for continuous education. One visitor from Wisconsin shared that while she relied on Housing Locator during her time as a Section 8 Housing Management Officer (HMO), her current role in tax credit administration has less day-to-day need. Meanwhile, newer staff aren’t always aware that a locator even exists.
This reinforces the importance of consistent partner engagement and staff training to ensure all team members are empowered with the tools they need. Housing programs and roles may evolve, but the need for accurate, accessible housing search tools remains constant.
Looking Ahead
Housing Credit Connect 2025 reminded us just how critical connection, innovation, and shared learning are to the affordable housing ecosystem. From emerging regulatory requirements to proven practices in outreach and development, the event served as both a touchpoint and a springboard for future collaboration.
We’re grateful for the many agency leaders, developers, advocates, and residents who shared their stories and insights with us throughout the week. Your work drives ours.
Supporting Your Housing Mission, Every Step of the Way
At Emphasys Housing Locator, we power state and local platforms that help renters, case managers, and housing professionals find affordable and accessible housing across the United States. Our tools are built to:
• Support LIHTC, Section 8, and HCV programs
• Help agencies meet HUD compliance and fair housing goals
• Improve data visibility and reporting for policymakers
• Enhance community access through customizable search tools
Whether you’re launching a new housing locator, training staff, or refining outreach, we’re here to help.
Let’s keep the conversation going.
