This month, we are proud to celebrate the District of Columbia Housing Finance Agency (DCHFA) in our Emphasys HFA Partner Spotlight. DCHFA, which celebrated its 45th anniversary in 2024, has long been a cornerstone of affordable housing innovation and stability across Washington, D.C. Since its founding in 1979, the agency has delivered creative, mission-driven financing solutions that preserve communities, empower residents, and advance housing equity in the nation’s capital. 

Today, DCHFA’s work spans the full spectrum of housing—from financing large-scale multifamily developments to helping first-time homebuyers cross the threshold of homeownership.

From rental development to pathways to ownership, DCHFA remains committed to investing in solutions that meet residents at every stage of the housing journey. In 2024 and 2025 alone, the agency financed over 1,000 affordable rental units and helped thousands of buyers access homeownership through strategic programs.

• January 2025: $35.1 million in tax-exempt bonds and $31.9 million in federal LIHTCs for 2911 Rhode Island Avenue NE in Ward 5.
• April 2025: $36 million in bonds, $29 million in federal, and $5 million in local LIHTCs for S Street Village in Ward 2.
• January 2024: $63 million in financing for Barnaby and 7th Apartments Phase II in Ward 8, supporting 229 units.

At the heart of this work is the Single Family Programs team, led by Tikisha Wilson. With a professional background shaped by both industry experience and personal insight into the homebuying process, Tikisha brings a passion for affordable housing and a commitment to breaking down barriers for District residents. Today, she leads a dedicated team focused on expanding access and supporting families through every step of the home buying process.

Under her leadership, the Single Family team has strengthened initiatives like the DC Open Doors program—launched in 2013—which continues to lower barriers to homeownership for District residents. The program offers down payment assistance loans (DPAL) and low-interest mortgage products that have helped thousands of buyers build generational wealth and find stability.

DCHFA also recently expanded its offerings with a dedicated Veterans Affairs program, DC4ME Veteran Loans, providing eligible veterans with up to 3% in down payment assistance—an important step in supporting those who have served.

“We pride ourselves on making sure residents have options and that lenders have our direct support. Our commitment is to the community—and that means staying flexible and responsive,” said Tikisha.

Partnering with the Community

Behind every successful homeownership program is a network of trusted partners. DCHFA works with over 30 approved lenders, building strong partnerships through direct engagement. The Single Family team follows a full-service model, managing underwriting, processing, closing, and ongoing customer care with a focus on responsive service and personal connection.

Equally important is DCHFA’s commitment to education. By partnering with HUD-approved housing counseling agencies and community organizations, the agency ensures every borrower completes homebuyer education before closing. These sessions cover budgeting, credit readiness, the mortgage process, and long-term financial planning—equipping residents with the tools they need for lasting homeownership. The agency’s hands-on approach, both with lenders and homeowners, has helped foster trust, stability, and long-term success throughout the communities they serve.

Technology as a Tool for Impact

In 2024, DCHFA implemented LOTUS, powered by Emphasys HFA, to streamline workflows, reduce manual processes, and support growing demand. Tikisha credits the system with helping her team work more efficiently and better serve lenders and borrowers.

“We’ve been able to automate key processes and simplify closing procedures. The difference in our day-to-day operations has been significant,” she shared.

DCHFA’s leadership also praised the collaborative relationship with Emphasys HFAs team members, noting that implementation provided a chance to rethink processes, customize tools, and improve outcomes. As Thurston Ramey, DCHFA Vice President, Technology and Business Intelligence emphasized, technology is most effective when paired with strong partnerships and a shared commitment to innovation.

As the housing landscape continues to shift, DCHFA is focused on expanding its impact—scaling its programs, deepening community partnerships, and staying agile in response to evolving market conditions. With increasing demand for affordable homeownership, the agency is investing in both people and technology to help more District residents access stable, affordable housing.

At Emphasys, we’re proud to support DCHFA in this next chapter—partnering through purpose-built technology and software solutions that help their teams meet the growing needs of their community. Together, we’re working toward a future where access, opportunity, and housing security reach even more families across the District.

Because when agencies like DCHFA lead with vision, their impact extends far beyond housing—it helps build lasting community resilience.

Explore More

This spotlight is part of our ongoing Partner Series, highlighting how agencies like DCHFA are expanding access to affordable homeownership—and how technology plays a role behind the scenes. Stay tuned for our in-depth conversation with Tikisha Wilson and Thurston Ramey, coming soon.

🔗 Learn more about the Emphasys Single Family Suite and how LOTUS supports HFA operations
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