INFO PAGE
About the Small Sites Program
The Small Sites Program helps prevent displacement and increases housing stability for all San Franciscans.
Introduction
The Small Sites Program (SSP) supports local nonprofit sponsors with acquisition and preservation loans, stabilizing at-risk communities by converting rent-controlled properties to permanently affordable housing.
Program Guidelines
The Small Sites Program Guidelines were last updated on November 4, 2022 following approval by the Citywide Affordable Housing Loan Committee.
Download the Small Sites Program Guidelines.
The scoring rubric attached to the Program Guidelines is periodically updated based on the semi-annual release of the Housing Balance Report from the Planning Department.
Download the latest Scoring Rubric (Excel), updated June, 2025.
How the Small Sites Program works
- Eligibility Determination – When an owner intends to sell a building, they are required to notice Qualified Nonprofits. Once a Qualified Nonprofit has determined through communication with tenants and due-diligence research that the building meets program requirements, a funding request in the form of a Project Application will be submitted to MOHCD. Project Applications will include proposed purchase price, estimated rehab needs and cost, proposed operating budget with rent schedule, and an income eligibility assessment of each household. Full requirements can be found in the Small Sites Program Guidelines.
- Building Rehabilitation – Buildings acquired under the Small Sites Program typically require rehabilitation to address deferred maintenance and ensure the property is safe and healthy for its residents. Tenants may need to temporarily move out of the building during rehabilitation. If this occurs, tenants will be moved to a similar apartment and the cost of moving will be covered by the Qualified Nonprofit.
- Building Conversion – Buildings approved through the Small Sites Program are no longer subject to the City’s Rent Board Ordinance. All tenants under the Small Sites Program are protected by federal and state fair housing laws which protects them from being treated unfairly based on race, color, religion, sex, familial status, or national origin. Rents are reviewed each year for an increase of 2% to 3.5% based on the cost to operate the building. Because the building can only be used as affordable housing under the Small Sites Program, tenants will not be displaced under Just Cause eviction protections.
Download the Small Sites Program Information Sheet.
Small Sites Program community partners
View the list of Small Sites Programs Qualified Nonprofits.
If you’d like to nominate your building, MOHCD recommends contacting a Qualified Nonprofit from the list above.