Below Market Rate (BMR) housing program
The Below Market Rate Housing Program is intended to increase the supply of affordable housing in Menlo Park. As part of the program, residential and commercial / industrial developers who build in Menlo Park are required to contribute BMR housing units and/or BMR housing in-lieu fees.
For more information on developer requirements:
BMR units can be available for rent or purchase. BMR sale and rent prices are based on what is affordable to eligible households. BMR units remain affordable over time to provide financial stability for various income levels and household sizes.
Household eligibility
To be eligible for the BMR Housing Program:
- Households who have lived or worked in Menlo Park for at least one year will receive a priority preference for the program. Please note, to qualify as working in Menlo Park, the applicant's hours worked must average a minimum of 20 hours per week over the course of one year.
- Based on the income category(extremely low, very low, low and moderate) of available units, the gross annual household income must not exceed the annual income limits for San Mateo County. All households who meet the income requirements are encouraged to enroll in the program.
- To view all eligibility criteria, please review the Below Market Rate Housing Program Guidelines(PDF, 1MB).
Availability
BMR units typically become available for purchase or rent in one of two ways. First, presently occupied BMR units are vacated from time-to-time; second, new residential developments in Menlo Park may produce additional BMR units. To receive updates on housing opportunities in Menlo Park, including available BMR rental units, please use this form to sign up for the BMR program interest list.
Additional information