DSHA Legal Services

The Delaware State Housing Authority is requesting proposals for legal services in three contract categories — Housing Development/Production Counsel, Public Housing Authority/Housing Management Counsel, and Outside General Counsel — with proposals due June 19, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time and written questions due June 12, 2026.

Minimum qualifications include at least one attorney admitted to practice in Delaware, maintenance of a Delaware office, professional liability insurance of not less than $5 million aggregate, and at least five years of relevant experience in the applicable contract category. Housing Development/Production Counsel requires conducting and managing a minimum of 15 multifamily closings annually, drafting and reviewing loan agreements and compliance documents related to Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and federal and state housing programs, and representing DSHA in negotiations. Public Housing Authority/Housing Management Counsel encompasses landlord/tenant litigation, HUD compliance and fair housing advisory work, and support for Rental Assistance Demonstration transactions. Outside General Counsel covers employment issues, procurement matters, FOIA requests, and litigation services for Administration, Public Relations, and Policy & Planning sections.

Proposals must include hourly rates by staff classification, estimated total hours by task, and maximum all-inclusive fees. Housing Development/Production proposals must provide per-transaction pricing for LIHTC closings, 4% Bond/LIHTC closings, and loan-only closings. Pricing must remain firm for 90 days from proposal opening. DSHA reserves the right to award multiple contracts within any category and to negotiate pricing and scope.

Evaluation criteria are weighted as follows: Capacity to Perform Work (35 percent), Experience and Reputation (25 percent), Approach and Understanding (20 percent), V/M/WBE Participation (10 percent), and Cost (10 percent). Anticipated interviews are scheduled for late June/early July 2026, with contract awards anticipated by July 24, 2026 and contract start date August 1, 2026.