The problem of access to housing continues to mark the political agenda of institutions. In the search for solutions or proposals that can mitigate the complicated social situation caused by the lack of supply and high prices, the Picassent City Council will explore a pioneering formula that avoids speculation and is not affected by the continuous growth of real estate values.
The municipal proposal is known as usufruct, whereby the City Council grants public land for 75 years so that a group of cooperativists can carry out housing development. This initiative requires an initial outlay of around 30,000 euros and monthly fees during the enjoyment of the home. These fees will depend on the total cost and the number of participants in the project, but the intention is that they do not exceed 500 euros per month.
Furthermore, this monthly fee is not only limited to the use of the home but also includes all associated costs for the building's operation, both the ordinary community expenses necessary for the maintenance of common areas and services, and for the amortization of the loan taken out by the cooperative to finance construction.
“"This pioneering model of social collaboration is an important initiative because it preserves public ownership of the land, avoids speculation, and allows access to housing without affecting prices due to speculative activity. The cooperative model is a good formula that must be promoted and expanded, as this collaboration between the city council and owners ensures quality and protection beyond real estate market fluctuations."
With this formula, ownership can even be transferred to children, and the initial amount paid can be recovered if one decides to leave the home. In short, the Administration grants the right of surface of a publicly owned plot to the successful cooperative for 75 years, while the promotion, construction, and management of the building correspond to the cooperative.
The initial study for the development foresees the construction of about 30 homes with parking spaces and common areas. This first usufruct initiative will be located next to the railway station, on a plot currently used as a car park.
To publicize the details of this new housing access model, an initial informative talk has been organized. Municipal urban planning officials and specialized companies will provide a detailed explanation and address any questions from interested attendees. This informative event will be on Wednesday, April 29, at 6:30 PM at the Refugi Cultural de Picassent.
This initiative joins another announced a few weeks ago, where the City Council announced an investment of 4 million euros from European funds to develop 45 affordable rental homes on designated land. The aim is to increase housing supply for more vulnerable groups, prioritizing those affected by the DANA.
