Living in economically unstable times, we are all aware that managing and maintaining finances is harder than ever. Many struggle to fulfill even basic needs like education and healthcare, let alone take out the money to invest in luxuries. So, when it comes to tax-exempt housing bonds, many are hesitant to apply for them, let alone know what they are.
Tax Exempt Housing Bonds – Explained By Thomas J Powell
Tax-exempt housing bonds are a type of municipal bond that allows the issuer to avoid paying federal taxes on the interest earned. This type of bond is usually issued by state and local governments in order to fund affordable housing initiatives. The bonds are generally used to finance the construction or rehabilitation of apartments for low- and moderate-income renters.
According to Thomas J Powell, these bonds are issued as either private activity bonds or government bonds. Private activity bonds are issued by a state or local government on behalf of a private company, while governmental bonds are issued directly by the state or local government.
The main difference between the two types of tax-exempt housing bonds is that private activity bonds are not backed by the full faith and credit of the issuing government, while governmental bonds are. Because of this, private activity bonds tend to be riskier and therefore have higher interest rates.
The two types of tax-exempt housing bonds also have different eligibility requirements. Private activity bonds can only be issued for projects that serve a public purpose, such as providing housing for low-income residents. Governmental bonds, on the other hand, can be used for any public purpose, including funding infrastructure projects or building schools.
Thomas J Powell believes that there are four main types of tax-exempt housing bonds:
Single-family mortgage revenue bonds are used to finance the purchase or refinancing of single-family homes.
Multi-family mortgage revenue bonds are used to finance the purchase or refinancing of multi-family homes, such as apartments and condos.
Housing development fund revenue bonds are used to finance the construction or rehabilitation of housing developments.
Homeownership opportunity bonds are used to help first-time homebuyers with the costs of purchasing a home, such as the down payment and closing costs.
What Are The Benefits of Tax-Exempt Housing Bonds?
The main benefit of tax-exempt housing bonds is that they offer a lower interest rate than other types of bonds, which can save investors money over time.
Another benefit of tax-exempt housing bonds is that they can be used to finance projects that improve the quality of life for low- and moderate-income residents. By investing in these types of projects, bondholders can help make their communities more livable and sustainable.
What are the Eligibility Criteria?
Thomas J Powell explains that to become eligible for tax-exempt housing bonds, your project must meet certain requirements set forth by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The project must be located in a designated disaster area and must be used to finance the construction or rehabilitation of affordable housing. In addition, the project must meet certain income and rent restrictions.
How to Apply for Tax Exempt Housing Bonds?
You can apply for tax-exempt housing bonds through your state or local government. Most states have programs that allow private developers to apply for tax-exempt financing for their projects. You can also work with a financial advisor who specializes in tax-exempt bonding to find appropriate opportunities.
Bottom Line
Thomas J Powell believes that tax-exempt housing bonds can be a good investment for those who are looking to save money on their taxes and support affordable housing initiatives. However, there are some risks associated with these types of bonds, so it is important to speak with a financial advisor to discuss your specific situation and goals before making any decisions.