The Binh Dinh Provincial People's Committee has laid down new regulations regarding the eligibility and conditions for purchasing, renting, or rent-purchasing social housing in the province, set to take effect on May 12, 2025. This decision comes in light of the increasing demand for affordable housing in the region and aims to clarify the criteria for potential buyers and renters.
According to the new guidelines, individuals specified in accounts 1 through 10 of Article 76 of the Housing Law No. 27/2023/QH15 are eligible to buy, rent, or rent-purchase social housing. This includes various groups such as low-income earners, workers, and other vulnerable populations who have been identified as needing assistance in securing housing.
Additionally, individuals listed in account 11 of Article 76 can rent social housing, while those in account 12 are entitled to rent worker accommodation in industrial parks. This provision is particularly significant as it allows companies to provide housing for their employees, facilitating a better work-life balance.
Notably, those renting social housing will not be required to verify their housing and income conditions as outlined in account 1 of Article 78 of the Housing Law. This change is expected to streamline the application process, making it more accessible for those in need.
However, individuals with permanent residency outside of Binh Dinh province must meet specific criteria to qualify for social housing. They must be working in Binh Dinh province for at least one year, which must be proven through a labor contract or other legal documents. This stipulation aims to ensure that social housing benefits are extended primarily to those who contribute to the local economy.
In a related development, the Chairman of the Binh Dinh Provincial People's Committee indicated in mid-December 2024 that applications for social housing from individuals not residing or working in the province would not be considered. This decision underscores the province's commitment to prioritizing its residents in the allocation of social housing resources.
During the 19th session of the Binh Dinh Provincial People's Council on November 7, 2024, Mr. Tran Viet Bao, the Director of the Department of Construction, noted that the new Housing Law has expanded the eligibility criteria for social housing, resulting in an increase in potential buyers. However, he also highlighted concerns regarding instances where civil servants from Hanoi were registering to buy social housing in Binh Dinh, which raised suspicions of speculation.
"Working in Hanoi and registering to buy social housing in Binh Dinh can be seen as speculative behavior," Mr. Bao remarked, emphasizing the need for the Department to report this issue to the Provincial People's Committee for further consideration. The Secretary of the Binh Dinh Provincial Party Committee also reiterated that social housing must not be exploited for speculation, stating, "Anyone who abuses this policy for speculation will face strict penalties according to regulations." This strong stance reflects the province's commitment to ensuring that social housing remains accessible to those who genuinely need it.
Furthermore, voters in Thi Nai ward, Quy Nhon city, have voiced their concerns regarding the accessibility of social housing projects, particularly for low-income households. They proposed that the Provincial People's Committee consider allocating social housing purchase targets to specific localities, such as wards and communes, to facilitate easier access for residents. This suggestion highlights the ongoing challenges faced by many in securing affordable housing.
In response to these concerns, the Department of Construction affirmed that project owners consistently send notifications regarding the acceptance of social housing purchase applications to the Department. This information is regularly updated on the Department's website, making it easier for potential buyers to stay informed about available opportunities.
As of early April 2025, Binh Dinh has eight social housing projects underway, including notable developments such as Tan Dai Minh Social Housing (Lamer 1), Tan Dai Minh 2 Social Housing (Lamer 2), and An Phu Thinh Social Housing. These projects collectively offer approximately 900 apartments, significantly contributing to the province's housing supply.
In April 2025, two social housing projects in Binh Dinh announced the acceptance of applications for social housing purchases. The Ecohome Nhon Binh Social Housing project is currently offering 29 apartments, while the housing project under the planning of the Binh Dinh Provincial Trade Union Design Area has 11 apartments available for rent and 76 for sale. These initiatives are expected to aid local residents in finding suitable housing options.
While the new regulations and ongoing projects aim to address the housing needs of Binh Dinh's residents, the local government remains vigilant against potential abuses of the social housing system. The emphasis on ensuring that only eligible individuals benefit from these programs reflects a broader commitment to social equity and support for those in need.
As the deadline for the implementation of these new housing regulations approaches, residents and potential buyers are encouraged to stay informed and take advantage of the opportunities available to them. With the province's commitment to increasing the availability of social housing, many hope that these efforts will lead to improved living conditions and greater stability for low-income families in Binh Dinh.