NAHP Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield NAHP facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. In a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher context, what is the 'payment standard'? → The maximum gross rent the PHA will subsidize for a given unit size
2. A property accepts Project-Based Section 8 subsidies. Under VAWA, if a tenant is a victim of domestic violence, management must provide her with: → Notice of her VAWA rights (HUD Form 5380) within 14 business days of adverse action
3. Which of the following is considered a compliance obligation for housing providers? → Comply with HUD reporting requirements
4. What is the value of continuing education in tax credit programs for NAHP professionals? → It keeps professionals current with evolving standards and practices
5. Which agency oversees the administration of HUD programs? → Department of Housing and Urban Development
6. What role does collaboration play in tax credit programs for NAHP professionals? → It enhances outcomes through diverse perspectives and shared expertise
7. Which federal law requires multifamily housing built after 1991 to include accessibility features such as accessible routes and adaptable bathrooms? → The Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988
8. What is the PRIMARY purpose of maintaining a clear chain of communication in NAHP professional settings? → To ensure accountability, prevent miscommunication, and facilitate timely information flow
9. Which notice is typically required before initiating eviction proceedings for nonpayment of rent? → 3-day notice to pay rent or quit
10. In NAHP practice, what is the best approach to quality improvement in marketing and outreach? → Use data-driven methods with measurable outcomes
11. What constitutes a 'material breach' of a lease agreement? → A significant violation of an essential lease term that justifies lease termination
12. What is the primary purpose of a Consolidated Plan required by HUD for entitlement communities? → To identify community needs and allocate CDBG, HOME, and other HUD funds
13. What is the most important professional competency for NAHP certification in maintenance operations? → Deep knowledge combined with practical application skills
14. Which of the following is a characteristic of a 'scattered-site' affordable housing development? → Affordable units are distributed across multiple locations in a community
15. When a tenant violates their lease, what is the appropriate first step for a property manager? → Issue a written notice specifying the violation and cure period
16. A policy that requires all tenants to have a minimum household income of 3x the monthly rent could constitute a Fair Housing violation if it: → Results in a disparate impact on recipients of housing assistance
17. A property manager notices a pattern of noise complaints targeting a tenant who recently immigrated and speaks limited English. This could indicate: → Potential discriminatory harassment based on national origin requiring investigation
18. When calculating a tenant's annual income for LIHTC eligibility, which of the following is EXCLUDED? → Irregular gifts and inheritances under $5,000
19. A NAHP professional discovers a conflict of interest in a current assignment. What is the MOST ethical course of action? → Disclose the conflict immediately and recuse if necessary
20. In affordable housing underwriting, 'operating expense ratio' (OER) is calculated as: → Total operating expenses divided by effective gross income
21. Which foundational principle is MOST important for success in the National Affordable Housing Professional profession? → Commitment to continuous learning, ethical practice, and quality outcomes
22. What role does collaboration play in tenant selection for NAHP professionals? → It enhances outcomes through diverse perspectives and shared expertise
23. What role does collaboration play in maintenance operations for NAHP professionals? → It enhances outcomes through diverse perspectives and shared expertise
24. When a LIHTC property transitions from the initial compliance period to the extended use period, which entity is responsible for monitoring ongoing compliance? → The state housing finance agency (HFA)
25. What is the MOST important principle of professional documentation in National Affordable Housing Professional practice? → Recording information accurately, objectively, and in a timely manner
26. What is typically included in an annual operating budget for a housing authority? → Projected income and expenses
27. A property's effective gross income (EGI) is calculated as: → Gross potential rent minus vacancy loss minus credit loss plus other income
28. The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) as it applies to affordable housing primarily provides which protection? → Protection from eviction solely due to domestic violence
29. Which of the following constitutes a reasonable modification under the Fair Housing Act at a federally assisted property? → Installing grab bars in the bathroom for a tenant with a physical disability
30. How should complaints about Fair Housing violations be handled? → Documented and reported to HUD