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ULI SPRING MEETING ULI SPRING MEETING
REGISTER
Moderator

Mr. Mike O'Hara Jr.

Principal Bohler

Mike O’Hara is a driving force in Washington, D.C.’s land development industry, dedicated to fostering economic growth and shaping the city’s evolving landscape. As a Principal at Bohler, he collaborates with policymakers and industry leaders to streamline development processes and create opportunities for new investment. His expertise spans infrastructure, permitting, and urban development, with a keen focus on addressing the city’s pressing housing needs.

 

Recently elected as Co-Chair of the Washington DC Economic Partnership (WDCEP), Mike plays a pivotal role in driving economic initiatives that revitalize the city’s built environment. He also serves on the board of directors for the DC Building Industry Association (DCBIA) and is actively involved in its working groups, engaging with key agencies such as the Department of Transportation (DOT), Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE), and DC Water. Additionally, he serves on the Urban Land Institute’s (ULI) Local Housing Product Council, where he examines strategies for increasing affordable and attainable housing across the region.

 

As a panelist, Mike will share his insights on overcoming development challenges in today’s market, the evolving role of affordable housing in D.C., and the strategies necessary to create sustainable and economically viable housing solutions.

Speaking at

Tue May 13 2:30 PM — 3:30 PM (GMT-07:00) Mountain Time Colorado Convention Center - Street Level, 301-303

Navigating the Landscape of Attainable and Affordable Housing Development

In today's challenging real estate market, developers are confronted with rising costs across various aspects of project development, from land acquisition to materials and labor. This panel discussion will delve into strategies employed by developers to navigate these hurdles and deliver profitable multifamily projects, particularly focusing on attainable and affordable housing initiatives. Key topics include adapting to market dynamics (as prices escalate, market-rate developers are embracing affordable housing models, but may face challenges competing with seasoned affordable housing developers); cost-effective design and amenities (successful developers are employing proven design elements and amenities while minimizing unnecessary expenses to ensure profitability); suburban expansion (developers are exploring opportunities on the outskirts and suburbs, branded as attainable housing, to cater to residents priced out of urban cores); strategic site selection (site selection and execution methods play crucial roles in ensuring the feasibility and profitability of projects); and the role of consultants (land development consultants contribute by offering value engineering solutions).