THE Ministry of Housing and the Central Housing and Planning Authority hosted their fourth ‘One Stop Shop’, on Friday, for lots on the East Bank of Demerara.

According to officials at the Ministry, Friday’s allocation exercise saw the distribution of approximately 200 lots, and was among the activities planned for 2015.

Those gathered at the Housing Ministry were elated to have the opportunity to move one step closer to home ownership; a few used the opportunity to express their gratitude.

“This is a great opportunity for us. We applied some time now and it is good that the Ministry is doing this now,” explained Joan Roberts.

Meanwhile, Mr. Gooding explained that he was at the ministry on behalf of his daughter who is a young professional and who would benefit tremendously from having a house lot.

“My daughter is a lawyer, a young professional and she would now be able to set the foundation at a young age,” he beamed.

The Ministry of Housing and the Central Housing and Planning Authority continues with their drive to provide affordable housing to all.

Minister of Housing and Water, Irfaan Ali, explained to persons that they should not be lured by other persons to resell their lands, since the bank value for one of the allotted lots is estimated at $12M.

He also informed them that because this is a recent problem the ministry is encountering, “we have in place on the contract you will be signing that the land cannot be sold or title transferred for 10 years.”
The Housing Minister congratulated the allottees on now being owners of their own houselots and wished them success in the construction of their homes. “This is another example that the Government is working for our people, it is our duty to do so and we are proud that we can provide this service for you,” he said.
The Chronicle spoke with a few beneficiaries and they unanimously answered, “we are very happy to be in line to receive our lots.”
Alex Samson, one of the beneficiaries, said: “Receiving my lot today is great and I am excited to be in my own home soon and enjoy my own comforts.” He noted that this is a tremendous move for him, as he will be able to provide his children with a home.
Mr. Singh, another beneficiary of a houselot explained that “I have only recently gotten married and starting a new life and to be given this opportunity of owning my own home is so good”. He explained that he will not have to pay a rent anymore and he can use the same monies to repay a bank loan “and at the end of all of this the place is mine.”
Some other persons who wished to have their names withheld noted that this is an investment in their lives as well as their children’s. One recipient noted that she had applied for a houselot in 2011, and today she is receiving her dream.
A young single mother explained that she was very happy to have her houselot and noted that she will save a lot, since her repayment to the bank will be less than the rent she now pays.