According to a statement issued by the Oudtshoorn Municipality gap housing is a term that describes the shortfall, or ‘gap’ in the market between residential units supplied by the state and houses delivered by the private sector. The gap housing market comprises people who typically earn between R3 500 and R15 000 per month, which is too little to enable them to participate in the private property market, yet too much to qualify for state assistance.
The non-availability of homes for this grouping that comprises municipal workers, nurses, teachers, conservationists, government officials, members of the police, soldiers and ordinary factory workers is puts pressure on the already limited rental houses and flats in town.
To qualify for gap housing applicants must have a household income of R3 500 to R15 000 per month, be a first time home buyer and have financial dependents project caters for applicants that meet all the following criteria:
The municipality has also already identified possible land that could be used for the GAP Housing projects which includes the Zeelandsnek area and land adjacent to the airport.
The municipality has appointed a consultant, Mr Japie Coetzee to initiate a market analysis and database creation process. Mr Coetzee has already started visiting government departments and companies identifying applicants who might qualify for the housing project. The first phase of data registration will end on 30 May and residents who meet the requirements to be listed on the gap housing database are encouraged to attend information sessions that will take place at their workplaces.
On completion of the data base the municipality will be able to determine the extent of the need for housing and commence with the project. The database phase will also help in determining the value of each house based on the individual income and needs of applicants. Coetzee has the following to say regarding the project: Residents can contact Japie Coetzee for consultation and information on 082 598 7273.
Executive Mayor of Greater Oudtshoorn, Gordon April said, " Gap housing is aligned with the Oudtshoorn Municipal Human Settlement Plan and the Greater Oudtshoorn Vision 2030, successful implementation thereof will contribute towards realization of our dream of becoming a town to work, learn, play and prosper in," and invited residents to grasp this opportunity to enter the housing market.
Mr Japie Coetzee (consultant), Aldm Gordon April (Executive Mayor) and Cllr. Nondumiso Gunguluza (Chairperson of the Community Services Portfolio)
'We bring you the latest Oudtshoorn, Klein-Karoo nuus'
