The Affordable Housing Programme (AHP) is a key part of Kenya’s Big 4 Agenda, providing low- and middle-income earners with the opportunity to own homes. By following the registration and application steps, you can move closer to securing a home that fits your budget and needs.
Understanding the Affordable Housing Programme
The Affordable Housing Programme is a government initiative aimed at providing quality homes to Kenyans at affordable prices. Through public-private partnerships, the government and developers collaborate to build homes, with the government offering support through land, infrastructure, and tax reliefs.
The programme supports three key income groups:
- Social Housing: For those earning up to Ksh 19,999.
- Low-Cost Housing: For those earning between Ksh 20,000 and Ksh 49,999.
- Mortgage Gap: For those earning between Ksh 50,000 and Ksh 149,999.
Homes are sold through the National Tenant Purchase Scheme (NTPS), allowing buyers to make affordable monthly payments based on their income level.
How to Register for the Affordable Housing Programme
To apply for a home, you must first register with the Housing Fund on the Boma Yangu portal. Follow these steps to get started:
- Visit the Boma Yangu Website: Go to www.bomayangu.go.ke.
- Create an Account: Use your ID number, email address, phone number, and set a password. A verification code will be sent to your phone.
- Fill Out Your Profile: Provide your employment status, income, and other personal details to help determine which housing category you qualify for.
- Add Dependents: If you have a family, include their details. This ensures you can apply for larger housing units.
- Contribute to the Housing Fund: You’ll be required to contribute a minimum of Ksh 200 per month to the fund.
Once registered, you can start expressing interest in available homes.
How to Apply for an Affordable House
After registering, follow these steps to apply for a house under the AHP:
- Browse Available Projects: Log in to your Boma Yangu account to view current housing projects. Each project will list the location, unit types (1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, 3-bedroom), prices, and timelines.
- Select Your Preferred House: Choose the house that best suits your budget and family size.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): This shows the government that you are interested in purchasing the house. However, submitting an EOI does not guarantee allocation.
- Wait for Allocation: When a housing project is complete, a ballot system is used to fairly allocate the houses. If you are selected, you will be notified and given further instructions.
- Start Payments: Successful applicants sign a purchase agreement and begin making monthly payments through NTPS. These payments will be based on your income level.
Government Support for Affordable Housing
The government plays a major role in making the AHP possible through various support mechanisms:
- Land Allocation: The government provides land for housing developments, helping reduce development costs.
- Infrastructure Development: Roads, water, electricity, and sewerage systems are built to ensure homes are livable.
- Tax Relief: Buyers enjoy up to Ksh 9,000 in tax credits on their contributions.
- Waiver of Stamp Duty: First-time buyers under the AHP do not pay stamp duty.
- Policy Reforms: The government continues to improve policies to ensure a smooth process.
Benefits of Joining the Affordable Housing Programme
Here are some of the key benefits of being part of the AHP:
- Low Monthly Payments: Affordable monthly installments, no large upfront payments required.
- Secure Process: The programme is transparent and overseen by the government.
- Tax Savings: Monthly tax credit helps reduce your tax burden.
- Guaranteed Ownership: After completing payments, you gain full ownership of the property.
The Affordable Housing Programme provides a unique opportunity for many Kenyans to own homes without the heavy financial burden of traditional mortgages. By registering, contributing to the Housing Fund, and applying for available homes, you can secure a home for yourself and your family.
