Audit: Hidden fees hinder Palo Alto housing program

Palo Alto’s effort to assist people in purchasing affordable homes is hindered by a significant supply shortage and a laundry list of hidden fees that place these residences out of reach for many potential buyers, according to a new report from the City Auditor’s Office. The BMR Housing Purchase Program covers a small subset of the city’s affordable housing strategy — about 10% of all existing affordable units — and was the primary subject of the audit report, which was conducted by Kate Murdock with consulting firm Baker Tilly, which acts as the city auditor. As a general rule, new for-sale housing developments coordinate with Palo Alto on an affordability plan, which may include setting aside BMR units or paying in-lieu fees that go toward a broader affordable housing fund.

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