Advancing Research, Education, and Sustainable Housing Policy

The Small Multifamily Institute (SMI)

The Small Multifamily Institute (SMI) is the nonprofit 501(c)(3) sister organization of the Small Multifamily Owners Association (SMOA).

Overview

SMI exists to support and advance SMOA’s mission through research, education, training, and public-interest initiatives that strengthen small multifamily housing and promote policies that are fair, practical, and sustainable for both housing providers and residents.

In 2026, the Institute is focused on two major initiatives examining the real-world impact of housing policy decisions offering a clear eyed look at how well-intended housing policies are destroying affordable housing by ignoring economic sustainability, harming both tenants and owners.

The DC Pandemic Takings Project

A research and documentation initiative

The DC Pandemic Takings Project examines the impact of pandemic-era housing policies on small rental property owners and the long-term consequences for affordable housing.

The project documents how emergency measures, including eviction moratoria and related restrictions, transferred public responsibilities onto private housing providers without compensation—raising serious legal, constitutional, and economic questions that continue to affect housing stability today.

Learn more about the DC Pandemic Takings Project

Rent Burdened: The Fight to Save Affordable Housing

A documentary film initiative

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