Verrbena | Case Study | Walker & Dunlop

The situation

As housing affordability challenges continue across the Denver metro area, there is a growing need for housing solutions that serve a broader range of residents, including individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). While affordable housing production remains critical, developments that intentionally incorporate neuro-inclusive design and supportive services remain relatively uncommon.

Maiker Housing Partners set out to address both challenges through Verrbena, a new-construction affordable multifamily community in Westminster, Colorado. Located within The Uplands, a 234-acre master-planned redevelopment, the project was envisioned as a community that would provide long-term affordability, expand housing options for residents with I/DD, and deliver services that support families and community engagement.

The development includes 70 affordable apartment homes—48 one-bedroom units and 22 two-bedroom units—with affordability levels ranging from 30 percent to 70 percent of area median income. In addition to housing, the project incorporates approximately 11,000 square feet of nonresidential space, including a Head Start daycare and outdoor community gathering areas.

THE SOLUTION

Walker & Dunlop Affordable Housing Equity partnered with Maiker Housing Partners to secure the equity financing needed to advance the project.

Led by Aaron Krasnow, Managing Director of Affordable Housing Equity, Walker & Dunlop structured and executed a 4 percent Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) equity syndication, securing $16.7 million in equity for the development.

The financing solution supported the creation of a community designed to meet multiple housing and service needs simultaneously. In addition to delivering affordable housing, Verrbena incorporates a neuro-inclusive housing component for residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities and community-oriented amenities that foster connection, accessibility, and support.

By leveraging LIHTC equity, the project advanced affordability goals while helping Maiker Housing Partners deliver a development that expands housing choice for historically underserved populations.

The Result

As Aaron Krasnow notes, “Verrbena represents an important addition to the affordable housing pipeline in the Denver metro area, combining long-term affordability with neuro-inclusive housing and supportive services.”

Upon completion, Verrbena will provide 70 affordable homes in Westminster, Colorado, for households earning between 30 percent and 70 percent of the area median income. The community's neuro-inclusive housing component will expand housing opportunities for residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities while supporting greater independence and long-term stability.

In addition to affordable housing, the development will include a Head Start daycare facility and community gathering spaces designed to serve residents and families. Located within The Uplands master-planned redevelopment, Verrbena will offer access to transportation, schools, healthcare, retail, and other community resources.

The project represents an innovative approach to affordable housing that combines long-term affordability, supportive services, and inclusive community design to address a broad range of housing needs.