Don Bernards

Bio:

Don Bernards, principal in charge of Baker Tilly’s housing team, has been active in the industry for more than 25 years. Don works with public housing authorities, not-for-profit and for-profit sponsors of affordable housing projects across the nation. He provides solutions and strategies from project conceptualization to applying for scarce resources and advising on various debt, equity, and grant options. In addition, as LIHTC projects approach year 15, Don advises clients on exit strategies, including resyndications. In the past two years, he and his team have worked on 80 projects totaling more than 6,000 units and $1.4 billion in total development costs. Donhas also been involved in the RAD program since its inception, working with small, medium and large public housing authorities to recapitalize their housing portfolio. His team assists client with upfront analysis of the portfolio, preparation of RAD applications, development of the RAD financing plan and closing of the projects. Don is currently working with non-profits and public housing authorities on working through the S&P rating process with the goal of using the rating to issue debt in acquisitions and preservation of housing. Don is also a co-host of a podcast called the “Buzzhouse”, where they discuss all things multifamily housing.