Alright, let’s be real. Kicking off a multifamily Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) renovation project can feel less like building the future and more like navigating a maze. Between compliance requirements, funding timelines, and resident coordination, it’s a full contact sport! That’s why having a general contractor who focuses exclusively on LIHTC renovations isn’t just helpful, it’s game-changing.

At Wilshire Pacific Builders, affordable housing renovation isn’t a line item on our services list, it’s the entire playbook. We’ve built our entire company around the unique needs of LIHTC developers, investors, and property owners, ensuring every step (from pre-construction to closeout) is handled with precision, efficiency, and care.

THE POWER OF FOCUS

When your general contractor focuses exclusively on affordable housing renovations, the difference shows big time! You’re not explaining the basics or crossing your fingers that they “get” LIHTC. You’re working with a team that’s already fluent in the language of compliance, efficiency, and community impact. Here are a few reasons choosing a specialist pays off:

NAVIGATING THE MAZE OF FEDERAL AND STATE REGULATIONS
Qualified Allocation Plans anyone? We’ve memorized more of them than we’d like to admit

UNDERSTANDING NUANCES OF COST CERTIFICATIONS AND ELIGIBLE BASIS
We know how to keep your tax credits secure and your project moving forward

EFFICIENCY IS OUR MIDDLE NAME
Occupied units & Strict deadlines? We don’t need to warm up, we are ready to hit the ground running

SOURCING MATERIALS THAT MEET LONG-TERM AFFORDABILITY REQUIREMENTS
We use sustainable, durable materials that last. Cheap fixes now = big issues later (let’s avoid that)

WORKING EFFICIENTLY IN OCCUPIED BUILDINGS WITH RESIDENT FOCUSED RENOVATION
Our tenant-first approach means we believe in being respectful, efficient, and communicative so the residents feel safe and comfortable throughout the process

We train our entire team with a focus on LIHTC programs, and we are armed with the knowledge and experience to navigate the complexities of these affordable housing renovations. Choosing a general contractor that focuses exclusively on affordable housing renovation means more than compliance, it means confidence.

THE WILSHIRE WAY

Our team brings decades of experience, proven processes, and the kind LIHTC renovation knowledge that saves you time, money, and stress. At Wilshire Pacific Builders, we believe good construction is only half the job. The other half? Understanding why you’re building in the first place.

We know it’s not just about construction, it’s about delivering smart solutions and quality renovations that protect your investment and strengthen communities. That’s why we bring not just expertise, but intentionality to every renovation. You’ll find our fingerprints (and our passion) on affordable housing communities across the country, each one built with purpose and pride.

We don’t just build, we partner, plan, and problem-solve like your project depends on it, because it does. So, if you’re ready to trade construction chaos for collaboration, we’re ready to roll!

In affordable housing, the word community gets used a lot, however few places capture its meaning like the community room itself. We believe this is a space where housing turns into home.

For developers and investors, these spaces do more than bring people together. They’re a smart investment in long-term property success. In affordable housing, retention and resident satisfaction matter, and a well-used community room directly supports both.

WHY INVEST IN COMMUNITY ROOMS?

Boost Resident Engagement and Retention

When residents feel a sense of community, they’re more likely to stay

Reduce Turnover

Fewer move-outs mean less downtime, and steadier occupancy

Support Compliance and Investment Goals

Many programs encourage on-site resident services, a community room becomes the hub for those activities.

Investing in community rooms improves property reputation, enhances compliance with LIHTC and supportive housing requirements, and increases property value.

BUILDING CONNECTIONS

We approach every renovation with the mindset that we’re not just updating flooring or paint; we’re creating spaces that encourage resident connections and strengthen the long-term success of your investment.

When these spaces come to life the impact reaches far beyond four walls. As strength in the community grows, that sense of ownership and pride spills out into how residents care for their homes and each other.

We know a thriving community room can help maintain stable, satisfied residents, which translates to consistent performance and stronger returns.

THE WILSHIRE WAY

When we renovate affordable housing, we treat community rooms as the heart of the property. A thriving community room doesn’t happen by chance; it’s thoughtfully designed and mindfully built.

Our design and construction teams work with developers, architects, and property management to review plans and requirements. By creating spaces focused on encouraging connections, selecting sustainable materials and finishes, and providing furniture and on-site staging services, we ensure these community spaces are functional, welcoming, and truly customized to meet the needs of your residents.

At Wilshire Pacific, we believe that when residents connect to their community, properties succeed. That’s what separates a good project from a great one.

At Wilshire Pacific, we have always believed that our success is tied directly to the strength of our relationships. We don’t just build or renovate properties; we build trust, and strong partnerships. Our goal is to make sure developers, investors, and architects are so impressed with their experience that they become our biggest advocates. For us, that means building partners who are eager to collaborate with us time and time again.

HOW DO WE APPLY THIS TO OUR WORK IN AFFORDABLE HOUSING RENOVATIONS?

A Vision of Perfection:

Before any project begins, we understand that our partners have a clear vision of success: an exceptional end result delivered on time, within budget, and without unnecessary friction. We share that vision, but we take it further. We aim to deliver an experience where communication is effortless, every milestone is achieved with precision, and the final product goes beyond what was imagined. By staying ahead of potential challenges and relying on proven systems that drive consistency and quality, we don’t just meet expectations, we redefine what’s possible in a project partnership.

Your Vision is Our Mission:

Our own vision guides us, but the true focus of every project is the goals of our partners. We collaborate closely with developers and investors to gain a full understanding, not just of what’s said, but of what’s truly needed. Whether it’s meeting a fast-paced timeline, managing a strict budget, or delivering on sustainability commitments, we go beyond surface-level.

THE WILSHIRE WAY

It is not enough to meet expectations; we aim to exceed them. We want to deliver on your vision, and more. This is not about grand, expensive gestures; it is about the little things that make a substantial difference. Whether it’s providing an unexpected progress report, offering a cost-saving suggestion, or staging your property with the finishing touches, it is that extra effort that creates the unique experience of working with Wilshire Pacific Builders.

At the end of the day, our approach is simple: build trust through transparency, consistency, and a relentless focus on creating an exceptional experience.

We are not just building projects, we are building partnerships for the future.

A week of an affordable housing unit renovation might feel like an episode of an HGTV show for the resident. They move out for a few days, come back and TA-DA… A newly renovated apartment!

Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes to make that renovation possible within that time frame? It’s not just swinging hammers and hoping for the best, it’s a careful combination of strategy, choreography, and a little bit of magic.

We believe that an occupied unit turn renovation should run like a well-oiled machine. We’re about to give you a behind the scenes look of how we make it all happen in a week.

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A week in the life of a unit turn:

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THE WILSHIRE WAY:

We Obsess Over the Details

Before each week of renovations our project manager, superintendents, and trade partners huddle up like a championship team on game day. They review plans, schedules, materials, unit locations, and how to keep everyone safe (and sane).

Throughout the process, quality control checks take place to review every detail before moving forward, because guess what? Paperwork, inspections, and audits never take a day off.

We know occupied renovations aren’t just about construction, they’re about people, compliance, and keeping timelines tighter than your favorite pair of jeans after Thanksgiving.

When you partner with a team that plans like us, you can count on:
✅ Less disruption for residents
✅ Predictable schedules for you
✅No 3 a.m. panic about paperwork

View More Before & After Photos of What We Do

Let’s face it: “Compliance” in the LIHTC world can sound about as fun as a tax audit! However, Compliance Matters, and it’s not optional. For developers and investors in multifamily affordable housing renovations, navigating the endless sea of regulations, documentation, and reporting can feel like a high-stakes game of Jenga… on a tightrope. The fear of a misstep that could jeopardize your tax credits or funding is real. We’ve seen firsthand how a contractor who isn’t obsessed with compliance can turn a dream project into a nightmare.

“CAN’T WE JUST START BUILDING?”

Many general contractors are anxious and ready to get started, coming in hot with hammers swinging. But when it comes to the niche world of affordable housing, a lack of dedicated compliance expertise can be a huge liability. Here are some things that often go sideways:

The “Oops, Didn’t Know That Rule!” Moment: We know that each State Qualified Allocation Plan (QAP) is unique, and Federal regulations love to change. Without a contractor who lives and breathes these updates, new regulations, design standards, and accessibility terms, simple documentation can be missed. And those “oops” moments can be expensive!

• Are you relocating tenants? There’s a form for that.
• Are you removing units from service during construction? There’s a limit to that.
• Are you touching anything ADA related? Buckle up, you have now entered Acronym Territory: ADA, UFAS and ANSI, Oh My! (don’t worry, we speak that language).

Documentation Disaster: If you didn’t document, it never happened. And if it never happened, congrats! You’ve triggered noncompliance (and possibly a full-blown IRS panic attack). Each project requires an insane amount of paperwork – every cost, every certification, every inspection. If your contractor isn’t managing this, you’ll be scrambling when it’s time for audits or draw requests. Who has time for that?

Physical Standards Fails: Your property can look nice, but it won’t save you if the bones don’t meet code. Every unit and every property must hit habitability and energy efficiency benchmarks, No Exceptions! If your contractor isn’t checking off your checklist of requirements, you’re not just getting a shotty build; you’re gambling with compliance (and waving goodbye to those precious tax credits).

Simply put, a contractor who isn’t a compliance champion is leaving your project vulnerable to costly penalties and rescinded tax credits. Let Wilshire Pacific make sure your renovation project doesn’t become a federal case study in ‘How Not to LIHTC’.

THE WILSHIRE WAY

Your LIHTC Compliance Superheroes (Cape Optional!)

At Wilshire Pacific Builders we don’t just build; we build right. Our approach to compliance and regulatory adherence is a massive differentiator, and here’s why developers and investors choose us:

Dedicated Compliance Team: This isn’t just a side gig, we have a dedicated team deeply versed in federal LIHTC regulations and every detail of each state’s QAP. We understand the specific scoring criteria, material requirements, and community benefits outlined in these plans. We stay updated on the latest changes, so you don’t have to.

Audit-Proof Paperwork: Forget messy spreadsheets and missing files! We create comprehensive, meticulously organized documentation for every single phase of construction. When it’s audit time, your records are ready, clean, and complete – saving you time, and sparing you stress!

Proactive Regulatory Adherence: We bake compliance into every step of our process. We review the initial plans and all property reports, ensuring all accessibility and energy efficiency requirements are met. We’re always thinking ahead, making sure to select subcontractors who also understand the project specific requirements on every project.

Renovating a LIHTC property isn’t impossible, it’s more like… highly choreographed chaos. Don’t let compliance fears or contractor inexperience stand in your way. Partner with a general contractor like us, who treats compliance as seriously as you do. We know compliance matters, and we’re here to be your trusted guide to achieving lasting success!

Navigating the complex world of renovating multifamily affordable housing projects requires smart planning and informed decisions. Before diving into financial models or complex paperwork, let us guide you through the critical first step: the non-negotiable pre-construction walkthrough. Think of it as your project’s very own lie detector test!

A THOROUGH ON-SITE ASSESSMENT IS NON-NEGOTIABLE

This isn’t just a quick look; it’s a deep dive. Our experienced team, armed with detailed checklists and an understanding of regulations, will carefully evaluate every unit, existing system, and site detail. It’s about uncovering crucial insights before they become critical headaches.

• The Plans Like to Lie: Initial descriptions and plans often have a creative grasp on reality. Spotting inconsistencies with a true understanding of the project is key to a successful renovation.

• Guessing Isn’t a Strategy: Until our pre-construction team walks the site, the full scope of work is just a guess. We find challenges you might not see on paper, like structural issues or existing building code violations. Get a clear picture from the start before creating a scope, schedule, or budget.

• Discovering Surprise Plot Twists: Our pre-construction walkthrough is designed to actively sniff out potential issues and tackle unforeseen conditions before they turn into expensive change orders and budget blowouts. No one likes a surprise party when the surprise is a crumbling foundation!

• You’ll Actually Know What You’re Getting Into. Revolutionary, Right? Having us do a pre-construction walkthrough gives your budget a fighting chance. This careful due diligence means the difference between confidently setting aside funds for necessary upgrades and suddenly facing massive, unexpected bills. Oh, how your balance sheet will thank you!

THE WILSHIRE WAY

At Wilshire Pacific, we believe a pre-construction walkthrough is more than just another box to check; it’s a comprehensive assessment, and we hope your property is ready for its close-up! On every affordable housing project our team goes all in; walking every unit, exploring every amenity space, snapping photos, taking measurements, checking systems, climbing onto the roof, crawling into crawl spaces, and even chatting with on-site staff to get the inside scoop.

We pay close attention to details that impact compliance, including QAP, NSPIRE, and Accessibility requirements. Armed with tools like 360° cameras and drones, we document every inch to ensure nothing is overlooked.

When you partner with Wilshire Pacific Builders, you can trust that every decision is strategic and every dollar is maximized. As a general contractor, our mission is to protect your affordable housing investment and deliver a project built for lasting success.

Trust us, it’s far less painful than discovering a hidden waterfall in one of the units mid-construction.

Find out more about What We Do Better

Allow us to introduce you to Steve, he isn’t the guy who brings sweet treats to the office (though that would be nice if he did), he’s our always ready, no-nonsense, accessible standards inspection tool! He’s the one who makes sure every property we renovate meets the highest accessibility standards, and keeps us humble in the process.

WHO IS STEVE?

Steve is not just a tool; he is an on-site legend.

Technically Steve is an accessible inspection tool that helps us measure, check, and evaluate the accessibility requirements on our projects. However, over the years we have come around to humanizing him as if he is one of our favorite co-workers (he is even the ‘Employee of the Month’ with a record to beat). Steve always follows the rules, never misses a thing, and will not let you mount that grab bar one inch too high.

We love him. We fear him. We have mixed emotions.

WHAT DOES STEVE DO?

Besides judging our floorplans, his job description includes (but is not limited to):

– Letting us know when a doorway is 35.9” wide (nice try, but code says 36”)
– Sending passive-aggressive messages when sink measurements don’t line up
– Corrects our light switch placement like a hall monitor with a tape measure
– Throw’s shade if the bathroom layouts don’t have the proper turning radii
– Rolls his eyes if the toilet seat doesn’t sit at proper throne height

He’s brutally honest and just sarcastic enough to make sure we know when something is off, and we better get it fixed ASAP!  If Steve was a (real) person, we think he would always have a laminated copy of the ADA guidelines in his pocket, but somehow, he’d still be
the life of the party.

WHY WE RELY ON STEVE:

Steve may be a pain, keeping us up at night questioning hallway widths, but we wouldn’t go to work without him.
Having Steve around ensures that our properties don’t just look good, they work and function for everyone.
He reminds us with every alert he so rudely points out, that accessibility isn’t optional, it’s essential. Honestly, it’s his unrelenting perfectionism that helps us build homes that are safer, smarter, and truly inclusive every time.

THE WILSHIRE WAY:

We make sure there is a Steve on every one of our job sites. Our Superintendents make sure to put Steve in his place (especially when he is being sassy) to double check we are meeting all requirements at accessible units as well as common areas. Steve makes it quick and easy for us to confirm the job is done right. You can rest assured your property will meet all necessary accessibility standards and pass inspections
knowing we have the right man on the job.

So here’s to Steve. Our beloved cardboard cutout, our accessibility conscience, our snarky but always accurate friend. He not only has our backs, he’s got the backs of every resident we are building for.


Thanks, Steve. Never change. (unless the codes update, then please change.)

“Steve” is an ADA Clearance Template Tool provided by AllThingsInspector.com

Whether you’re chasing podium finishes or construction deadlines, the principle is the same: success is built on detailed planning, adaptability, and teamwork. The strategic mindset of a Formula 1 team preparing for a Grand Prix and our Preconstruction team mapping out a resident relocation plan is remarkably similar.

PREPARATION & PLANNING

Race team members navigate different climates, terrains, and track configurations to analyze and prepare the car for optimum performance at each race. This may involve changes to the car set up, tires, and strategy. The car suspension, aerodynamics, and gear ratios are tailored to fit the needs of each specific track. They also coordinate logistics meticulously for shipping the car, tools, and spare parts from one track to another, as any delays may cost them the race.
 
Our preconstruction team evaluates the scope of work, site layout, and existing conditions to tailor a relocation plan to best fit each project. Planning where to set up temporary workspaces for on-site staff, where residents and their belongings will relocate, and how long they will be displaced is important to keep any relocation plan running smoothly. Each relocation plan involves coordination with construction schedules, moving companies, and any equipment needed to keep the project on schedule and reduce additional costs.

COMMUNICATION, CONTINGENCY & COORDINATION

From pit crew to driver, seamless communication during a race is critical. Every team member has a defined role, and everyone knows the plan. Everyone is ready and able to adapt their strategy on the fly. Rain? They have wet tires. Unpredictable car malfunctions? They have replacement parts. There are backup plans and systems always on standby. After every race, the team debriefs to analyze the data and make any needed improvements for the next race.
 
Relocation involves ownership groups, construction teams, on-site staff and residents. Regular meetings, clear documentation, and designated point people help ensure everyone is aware and involved during the process. Whether it’s supply chain delays or unexpected structural discoveries, we plan for contingencies. Alternative workspaces, additional buffer time in schedules, and communication protocols can make the difference between a quick recovery and derailment. At the end of each project, we review feedback from all parties to analyze what worked and what could be improved. This builds knowledge for creating future relocation plans.

THE WILSHIRE WAY

While no relocation plan is the same, we provide two primary options:

Occupied Unit Turns:
– Residents move their belongings to a specified room within their unit
– They are asked to vacate their unit between 8am and 5pm every day during construction of their unit

Out-of-Place Unit Turns:
– Residents pack and moving company will remove and securely store their belongings
– They are provided an option by ownership to stay at an alternative location until construction of their unit is complete

Before any work starts, our Project Manager holds an on-site meeting with residents and staff where they explain the relocation plan in detail, ensuring everyone understands and feels comfortable with the process.

Winning starts long before the starting line. In both cases, preparation is everything.

Affordable shouldn’t mean having to compromise when it comes to product selections. We are committed to raising the standards of what to expect in affordable housing. Our design team focuses on sourcing elevated materials that balance durability, budget, and aesthetics. Selecting custom, quality finishes and fixtures allows us to elevate every property, and it’s not an upgrade, it’s our standard. We will not only meet, but exceed your expectations of what you can achieve in your renovations.

MATERIAL SELECTIONS MADE EASY

Using quality materials on your property isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s a strategic decision that impacts every aspect of the project. High quality materials lead to better durability, fewer repairs, and lower long-term costs by reducing and minimizing the risk of malfunctions. They also streamline installation, due to more consistent manufacturing standards, which keeps schedules on track and labor times efficient. These products also make general maintenance or replacement easy with industry leading warranties and higher product availability.

A Few of our Standard Materials Include:

THE WILSHIRE WAY

Our Director of Design specializes in LIHTC affordable housing renovation products, materials, accessibility standards, and state requirements. So when our team sends you a custom design concept for your property, rest assured that all the materials have been researched to meet specific project requirements, building code compliance, warranty standards, and budgets. Selecting products that meet requirements such as State QAP’s, Environmental Efficiencies, and Accessibility Standards is our top priority.

Our team works on building long standing relationships with vendors and suppliers to keep up with new products, availability, and cost. It is our goal to find the best material options out there and make them available to you. Creating concepts that elevate not only the aesthetic, but sustainability of your property is another way we help build a better future for residents and staff.

Having our design team in-house and available to you on every project to help select the right materials
is just one of the ways we are raising the standard in affordable housing.

Imagine showing up to your project for a monthly bank walk and being handed a draw package that was clear, concise and complete. It could happen, and we make sure it does! We provide more detailed information in our draw packages than any other contractor we know, giving owners peace of mind that the on-site bank walks will run smoothly, with fewer questions, resulting in faster funding! We are making scary draw packages a thing of the past.

Our Process of Creating Draw Packages:

Pencil draw is sent for review 1 week prior to walk
Prepare all relevant bank & inspector documents
Include all forms related to HUD, USDA, etc.
Change Order Logs are up to date
Potential Change Orders are Logged
RFI and Submittal Logs are updated
Confirm all Subcontractor Lien Waivers are signed
Construction schedules are updated
Physical copies are printed into binders

The Wilshire Way:

Our goal is to have the paperwork correct so you can trust that we have the requisition done right.
We even go the extra mile to ensure the process is quick and easy!

Electronically distribute draw package prior to bank walk
Project Managers bring physical copies on site
Attach tabs to quickly locate all signature lines
Process & distribute executed draw packages quickly

We aim to take the stress out of construction draw packages. Let us
redefine the standard for how they should be done.

When it comes to construction, we know that trust isn’t built overnight – it’s earned on every job site, with every task completed, and every deadline met. At Wilshire Pacific Builders we know our clients are putting their projects and their confidence in our hands. That’s why our team is made up of trusted, experienced professionals who have spent decades mastering their craft. From Pre-Construction to Post-Construction, our team brings the skill set and reliability that only years in the field can deliver.

What Makes Us the Team You Can Trust?

– Wilshire Pacific has had an exclusive focus on Affordable Housing for 9 years, and is licensed in 17 states
– Our Construction Management Team has successfully completed 65 projects across the nation
– Our Superintendents have turned over 7,000 resident occupied units
– Our Project Engineers have constructed and monitored over 2,000 approved submittals
– Our Accounting Team has managed over 800 draw packages from preparation through funding
– Our HUD – Prevailing Wage Specialist has orchestrated 13 projects in 7 states
– Our In-House Design Team has curated 40 unique unit & community space designs
– Our In-House Cabinet Specialist has created 380 custom cabinet layouts
– Our team has built relationships and works with over 750 Subcontractors throughout the industry

The Wilshire Way:

Have you ever run into a General Contractor who claims they have “experience with Affordable Housing”, and they might, but it turns out their project teams do not? We do not believe in false advertising. We understand that continuing education and consistent training is a vital part of our team’s success. Some of the programs that our team trains on include:

In addition to these programs, we also do Interdepartmental Cross Training and Team Building Retreats.  This ensures that our team has the same understanding across the board in customer service, problem solving, quality control, client relationships and taking extreme ownership of responsibilities.

Our mission is to implement a new standard of what a General Contractor in the Affordable Housing industry should be. We are the team you can trust to build a better future for those in affordable housing!