Rent to Own for NHA apartments

THE EDITOR: Sometime ago the Housing Minister, Keith Rowley introduced the concept of Rent to Own for new homeowners in the National Housing Authority (NHA) programme. I suggest that the Government apply the same concept of Rent to Own to those who have been renting NHA apartments for many years. NHA renters would like to own their apartments. Most of which are over 20 years and in a dilapidated condition.

Government should sell these apartments for prices ranging from $60,000 to $75,000 Rent paid over the years should be applied as credit towards this amount. The balance could be paid through a mortgage arrangement and title to property be given. Apartments that have not yet been refurbished should be further discounted. This arrangement would now make NHA renters property owners. For the Government they would be spared annual maintenance expenses, would collect building taxes and water rate. It is a win — win situation for everyone.

KAREN THOMAS
Duncan Village
San Fernando