GlobeSt.com: Paul Rahimian on How ED1 Is Reshaping Affordable Housing Development

By Richard Berger | GlobeSt | March 31, 2026

In a recent GlobeSt article, Paul Rahimian, CEO of Parkview Financial, discusses how California’s Executive Directive 1 (ED1) is accelerating affordable housing development and reshaping project feasibility across Los Angeles.

Rahimian notes that the streamlining of entitlement and permitting processes—historically one of the biggest barriers to development—is already reducing friction and allowing projects to move forward more predictably. As a result, previously unviable developments are now attracting renewed interest.

He also highlights growing momentum in small- to mid-scale multifamily projects, particularly in infill locations, as developers respond to faster approvals and clearer regulatory timelines.

“While our approach remains predominantly market-driven, nearly 50% of the new ground-up multifamily opportunities currently under review incorporate some form of affordable housing component,” Rahimian said.

The accelerated timelines under ED1—combined with improved regulatory clarity—are helping to reduce project costs and compress development schedules, further supporting feasibility.

Rahimian also points to the role of Section 8-backed rents and nonprofit partnerships in strengthening project economics. Rental assistance programs can enhance income stability, while tax abatements tied to affordability requirements may significantly improve operating margins and overall asset value.

From an investment perspective, he notes that the current environment presents opportunities to gain exposure to affordable housing through both direct equity participation and fund-based strategies, depending on investor objectives and risk tolerance.

The full article is available to GlobeSt subscribers here