“Doing these projects is like a custom-tailored suit,” Jacobson said. “Every one takes special measuring and sewing and cutting. [The Preservation Fund] gives us a standard product, in some ways.”

That “product” is a reliable source of acquisition funding, which can be the biggest hurdle for tenant groups hoping to actually use TOPA, Jacobson said.

Jacobson said the 5912 14th Street property was appealing to LISC DC because of the character of the Brightwood Park neighborhood, and of the people who live in it.