Housing trusts are nonprofit corporations that are set up specifically to provide housing for people who cannot afford it or do not qualify for other types of housing. These trusts often work with the private sector, like builders and lenders, to ensure that there is a steady supply of affordable housing available.

Federal and state tax laws provide financial incentives for those who set up housing trusts. In addition, these trusts can provide a valuable service for those who cannot afford to house. Housing trusts typically provide funds, either through loans or grants, for developers to build affordable housing in a given area. They may construct these homes themselves, or they may construct and then sell the homes to private builders. Housing trusts also buy existing properties that are then converted into affordable rentals or for-sale units.