Unspoken Norms and Invisible Red Tape in HUD Projects

Episode Summary In this episode of Blueprint to Billions, HUD attorney and community advocate Terry Bruner uncovers the unspoken rules, hidden red tape, and soft skills that shape HUD-backed multifamily housing deals. From the silent expectations developers must meet to the human dynamics that can stall projects even after approval, Terry explains why navigating HUD is as much about relationships and communication as it is about compliance. He reveals why housing norms are shifting across generations, the role ego and poor execution play in delayed deals, and why balancing mission with money is critical for long-term success. Terry also discusses the behind-the-scenes realities developers face—like liquidity challenges and community pushback—and why relational capital matters more than ever in today’s real estate landscape. Key Timestamps 01:05 – The unspoken rules every developer should know before approaching HUD 03:30 – How generational shifts are changing America’s housing norms 05:15 – Why ego and poor communication derail HUD deals 07:10 – The two biggest reasons projects stall and how to prevent them 09:03 – Behind-the-scenes realities: liquidity challenges and creative partnerships 11:11 – Balancing mission and money in affordable housing development 13:18 – Building a more community-first approach to HUD projects 15:30 – Why political nuance and relational capital matter more than compliance 18:05 – Due diligence, soft skills, and strategic partnerships for long-term success About the Show Blueprint to Billions is a podcast for real estate professionals, investors, and changemakers who want to master the strategy behind HUD-backed multifamily housing deals. Hosted by attorney and  multifamily housing strategist Terry Bruner, the show pulls back the curtain on what really drives successful affordable housing development, from navigating red tape and relational capital to building generational wealth through TPA investments. Each episode blends legal insight, policy knowledge, and practical advice to help listeners scale projects with purpose, profit, and community impact in mind. Resources and Links Learn more about Terry Bruner’s work: terrybrunerlaw.com Subscribe to Blueprint to Billions for more expert insights on real estate law, policy, and strategy.