Frequently Asked Questions.

At 1DROP, we’re committed to creating equitable housing opportunities and empowering developers of color. Below, you'll find answers to some of the most common questions about who we are, what we do, and how you can get involved. If you don’t see your question answered here, feel free to contact us directly!

  • What does 1DROP do?

    1DROP is a collective of real estate developers addressing the Puget Sound housing crisis. We support underrepresented developers through mentorship, collaboration, and resources to create housing for all wages, all stages, and all ages.

    Does 1DROP develop property? 

    No, 1DROP does not directly develop properties. We are a collective of real estate developers dedicated to advocating for underrepresented developers and fostering opportunities for equitable growth in the industry.

    How long has 1DROP been doing this?

    While 1DROP was officially founded in 2024, our co-founders and members bring decades of experience mentoring, apprenticing, and collaborating with emerging developers.

    Is 1DROP a non-profit organization?

    1DROP is filing for nonprofit status, and has different subsidiaries for different purposes. 

    How did 1DROP get its name?

    “1DROP” reflects the idea that a single drop can create a ripple effect. It symbolizes how collective efforts can lead to transformative change in housing and wealth equity.

  • What role do real estate developers play?

    Real estate developers play a vital role in shaping communities by identifying opportunities, overseeing construction, and creating housing that addresses local needs. However, with less than 0.4% of developers being Black and less than 0.1% being Hispanic, critical decisions about housing are often made without diverse perspectives. This lack of representation impacts affordability, community design, and access to generational wealth.

    How does 1DROP’s mission address the need for greater representation in the industry?

    At 1DROP, our mission is to empower BIPOC developers by providing mentorship, funding, and resources to create equitable housing solutions. By addressing systemic barriers and amplifying the voices of underrepresented developers, we are not only creating homes but also fostering inclusive communities and ensuring that housing decisions reflect the diversity of the people they serve.

  • What is 1DROP progress to date?

    In 2024, we've made significant progress toward our mission:

    • Recruited and supported 18 underrepresented developers (3 established, 5 emerging, 10 aspiring).

    • Piloted 7 apprenticeships across 10 projects covering 214 units.

    • Completed 178 housing units with 51 more under construction.

    • Secured $844K in operational funding

    • Helped developers secure $5.587M in early-stage capital funding.

    • Successfully supported developers in obtaining $23.7M in permanent financing Our current pipeline includes 104 permit-ready units, 857 units in preconstruction, and 260 units under contract.

    What are examples of recent projects?

    Our recent completed projects showcase our commitment to diverse housing solutions:

    • The Meadowlark: 63-unit community in Lakewood featuring a mix of studio, 1BR and 2BR units, including 10% affordable units at 30% AMI.

    • Heron Heights: 36-unit development in Lakewood completed in April 2024.

    • 604 Sheridan: 14-unit development in Tacoma featuring a mix of studio to 2BR units.

    • 2 Chelan: 40-unit development of duplexes in Tacoma. The units range from efficient 440-square-foot 1BR, 1BA homes to spacious 1,212-square-foot 2BR, 2BA residences, accommodating diverse living needs.

    What are 1DROP’s long-term goals?

    Our five-year goals include supporting 40-60 BIPOC developers, building 2,750 homes, creating 7,000 jobs, and generating over $1 billion in economic activity.

    What kind of housing projects does 1DROP prioritize?

    We focus on projects that address the diverse housing needs of our community, from homeownership to rentals, and from affordable to market-rate homes, supporting all wages, all stages, and all ages.

  • What are ways to partner with 1DROP?

    We welcome partnerships across sectors:

    • Funders: Support through grants, loans, lines of credit, or construction gap funding.

    • Public Sector: Partner on land banking, policy initiatives, or tax incentives.

    • Non-profits & Housing Authorities: Hire our developers, collaborate on projects, or refer opportunities.

    • Industry Partners: Provide mentorship, resources, or co-development opportunities.

    • Community Organizations: Partner on resident services, financial literacy, or housing assistance programs.

    What are ways to support 1DROP?

    There are several ways to support our mission:

    • Champion Us: Advocate for 1DROP, our developers, and equitable housing policies.

    • Share Awareness: Follow and promote our work on social media (@1drophomes).

    • Make Introductions: Connect us with potential allies and partners.

    • Engage: Participate in our events and initiatives.

    • Fund Our Work: Support our operational capacity and housing projects through grants, partnerships, or by using the DONATE button on our website. Every contribution helps us grow our impact and create lasting change.

  • Does 1DROP receive funding?

    Yes, we work to secure funding from grants, donations, membership fees, and partnerships to support our operations and developer-led projects.

    We partner with the Greater Tacoma Community Foundation on donations.

The journey to equitable housing starts with bold ideas and collective action. At 1DROP, we’re proud to work with passionate developers and partners to create homes and opportunities for generations to come.

We’re here to assist!
If you still have questions or need more information, feel free to contact us at info@1drop.co.