We are excited to announce a change in terminology within OR-MEP. The term Naturally Occurring Affordable Housing (NOAH) will now be replaced with Low-Cost Apartments to better communicate to property owners of unsubsidized affordable rental housing.
The definition remains the same, with Low-Cost Apartments being defined as properties that are currently unsubsidized rental housing that maintain low rents without state or federal subsidies.
This change from the OR-MEP program team comes from direct consultation with the OR-MEP DEI Coalition. The goal was to find a simple and straightforward name that resonates more clearly with property owners of unsubsidized rental properties—often small property owners who keep rents low due to community needs, economic factors, and property age.
Why the change?
The term “Naturally Occurring Affordable Housing” has led to confusion. It is not well understood, and property owners often don’t self-identify their properties as NOAH. Additionally, the term is frequently mistaken for other housing programs, and the word “affordable” is often linked to subsidized housing, which does not apply here.
Low-Cost Apartments is a simpler, clearer term that directly addresses unsubsidized housing, making it easier for property owners to recognize eligibility and engage with the program.
What does this mean for you?
This name change aims to improve communication and deepen program accessibility. By using Low-Cost Apartments, we hope to foster better self-identification by property owners of unsubsidized affordable housing, reduce confusion, and expand program participation.
Thank you for your continued support as we work to make affordable housing improvements more accessible! Learn more about Low-Cost Apartments by visiting our FAQ page.
