Affordable Housing Preservation Laws provide a right of first refusal to Qualified Entities (QEs). QEs are entities that are willing to maintain the affordability of the property. Therefore, it is critical that parties interested in purchasing an Assisted Housing Development be certified as QEs.
Becoming a Qualified Entity
QEs are tenant associations, local non-profit organizations and public agencies, regional/national non-profit organizations and regional/national public agencies, or profit-motivated housing organizations or individuals that are interested in bidding on affordable properties and have been deemed certified to own and operate assisted housing developments by HCD. An entity listed in Government Code section 65863.11, subdivision (d), may become a QE through HCD’s self-certification process.
Use the form below to apply to be registered as a new QE:
- Qualified Entity Certification Form (PDF) — Revised 09/2025
QEs can opt to receive notifications for all eligible affordable properties in California or for projects in specific counties in California.
To update your information as an existing QE, submit a Technical Assistance Request through the Affordable Housing Preservation Portal.
Notifying Qualified Entities
Owners must notify all relevant QEs of potential opportunities to purchase an assisted housing development. Geographically relevant QEs include all QEs in the county where the development is located and those whose area of interest includes “All Counties.” See the NOSOP section for further details.
If any QE believes an owner has failed to comply with requirements of Government Code section 65863.11, please submit a request to review a potential violation through the Affordable Housing Preservation Portal.