Compliance Specialist-Affordable Housing

What you will do?

The Compliance Specialist is responsible for ensuring that affordable housing communities remain in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, as well as program requirements including LIHTC, HUD, Section 8, HOME, and Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) programs. This position serves as the primary liaison between Affordable Housing Network, Inc. (AHNI) and regulatory agencies, funding partners, and other stakeholders; provides guidance and support to onsite staff; and collaborates with internal and external partners to facilitate effective communication, regulatory compliance, and successful program administration. The Compliance Specialist plays a key role in mitigating risk, promoting operational excellence, and supporting AHNI's mission of providing quality affordable housing.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Serves as a liaison between Affordable Housing Network, Inc. (AHNI) and regulatory agencies, including the Iowa Finance Authority (IFA), HUD, local municipalities, and other funding or oversight agencies as required.
• Review and approve resident files for compliance with affordable housing program requirements.
• Verify income, assets, student status, and eligibility documentation for new move-ins, annual recertifications, and interim recertifications.
• Ensure compliance with regulations governing LIHTC, HUD, Section 8, HOME, TBRA, Fair Housing, and other applicable affordable housing programs.
• Conduct regular audits of resident files, waiting lists, lease files, and property records.
• Pull EIV reports for required move-ins and complete monthly EIV zero income checks, and resolves EIV discrepancies.
• Monitor compliance deadlines and ensure timely completion of certifications, recertifications, and reporting requirements.
• Prepare, compile, and submit required documentation, reports, and responses to regulatory agencies, including the Iowa Finance Authority (IFA), HUD, local municipalities, and other funding or oversight agencies as required.
• Serve as the primary point of contact during compliance reviews, audits, and monitoring visits conducted by regulatory agencies, investors, and auditors.
• Assist with responses to audit findings and monitor corrective action plans through completion.
• Provide guidance and training to property managers and site staff regarding compliance requirements, regulatory changes, and best practices.
• Stay current on affordable housing regulations and communicate updates to management and site personnel.
• Maintain accurate compliance records and reporting systems.
• Assist with tenant eligibility determinations and resolution of complex compliance issues.
• Support property acquisitions, lease-ups, file corrections, and special compliance projects as needed.
• Collaborate with management and site teams to ensure consistent compliance practices across the portfolio.
• Maintain confidentiality of resident and company information.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and knowledgeable in affordable housing compliance. They possess strong analytical skills, can confidently interpret and apply complex regulations, and are committed to maintaining program compliance while supporting property teams in providing quality affordable housing to residents.

What you need:

• Minimum of two (3) years of experience in affordable housing compliance or a related field.
• Working knowledge of LIHTC, HUD, Section 8, HOME, TBRA, Fair Housing, and other affordable housing regulations.
• Comprehensive understanding of Iowa Code Chapter 562A (Iowa Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Law) and property management operations.
• Strong understanding of income calculation, asset verification, and eligibility determination requirements.
• Ability to interpret federal, state, and local regulations and apply them to complex situations.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and property management software.

Certifications

• Certified Occupancy Specialist (COS), Housing Credit Certified Professional (HCCP), Tax Credit Specialist (TCS), Certified Professional of Occupancy (CPO), or similar affordable housing certification required or the ability to obtain certification within a designated timeframe after hire.

Apply now for immediate consideration!