It has been nearly a year since the City clarified the rules related to Affordable New York Housing Program (new 421-a). However, the developers of rental buildings are still struggling with the previously unfamiliar processes of Housing Lottery and tenant selection for income-restricted units.

The 421-a Tax Exemption law, originally enacted on July 1, 1971, was designed to spur economic and residential development in a faltering city. The program has now become synonymous with affordable housing.