FOCUS Compliance Software

What FOCUS Compliance Software is

FOCUS Compliance Software is a web-based system for monitoring affordable housing requirements and managing related records. It checks properties and individual units against federal, state, and local income and rent restrictions, automates complex income and rent calculations, and produces agency reports. Its listed program coverage includes LIHTC, tax-exempt bonds, HOME, RDA, CDBG, and Inclusionary housing requirements. Graphical icons show compliance status for individual properties and the overall portfolio. A centralized database provides real-time reports, while a single portal holds important documents and reports. The software also automates reports, site visits, and correspondence. It runs in a browser on a computer with internet access and does not require desktop installation. Housing Compliance Services provides ongoing IT support. Access begins with an account request, after which a Compliance Manager contacts the requester; authorized property owners can create accounts for their properties. Licenses renew annually, with fees based on the number and size of affordable housing properties. Data loading and custom coding may incur additional fees. The maker says it stores information on servers it manages using standard security procedures appropriate to the information, but does not guarantee internet transmission security.

Who it suits

FOCUS is available for licensing by public agencies, developers, bond issuers, and tax credit investors monitoring affordable housing compliance. It suits organizations working with the listed housing programs and income or rent restrictions.

Limits

Licenses renew annually, with fees based on the number and size of affordable housing properties. Data loading and custom coding may create additional fees.

Getting started

1. Open the FOCUS Compliance Software website
2. Request an account
3. Work with a Compliance Manager to set up access
4. Authorized property owners create accounts for their properties
5. Sign in from a computer using an internet browser

Verdict

FOCUS combines compliance checks, calculations, records, and reporting for affordable housing portfolios. Before licensing, clarify the annual fee and any data-loading or custom-coding costs, and consider the stated limit on transmission-security guarantees.