The new bill introduces substantial amendments to Law 5006/2022, with a key focus on strengthening social housing programmes through the introduction of the "social consideration" (κοινωνική αντιπαροχή) model. This model establishes a contractual framework between the state or local authorities and private contractors for the development or renovation of residential properties of a social nature, utilising public real estate assets.
Under this scheme, the private contractor undertakes the construction works at their own expense and risk, in return for compensation that may include a portion of the completed properties, monetary remuneration from sale or lease, or the right to temporarily exploit the asset. The public authority may also assign the management of the properties to the contractor. In cases involving existing buildings, the agreement may include changes of use, demolition, or structural additions. All transfers of real estate rights are executed via notarial deed and registered in the National Cadastre free of charge. Upon the conclusion of the management period, the property reverts to public ownership, regardless of any active tenancy agreements.
Eligible tenants for social housing will be selected by the Organisation for Welfare Benefits and Social Solidarity (OPEKA) based on strict social criteria, such as income level, family and property status, and the number and age of dependent children. Rent levels will be significantly below market rates, ensuring affordable housing access for vulnerable groups.
A noteworthy provision in the bill is the option to establish rent-to-own agreements for newly built or renovated properties. Such agreements may be signed no sooner than ten years after the initial lease, provided they are notarised and registered in the Cadastre. The right of first refusal becomes valid only upon official registration, again at no cost to the beneficiary.
The economic and technical feasibility study accompanying each social consideration project will determine the optimal use of the property, the proportion of housing reserved for social purposes, and the maximum duration of the management period. The legislation stipulates that no less than 30% of the completed units must remain under public or municipal ownership for leasing purposes.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Social Cohesion and Family is granted exclusive authority to manage public real estate for social housing purposes via the social consideration mechanism, bypassing bureaucratic obstacles and without requiring monetary compensation. In specific cases, public assets may be directly transferred to the state through an administrative act, which will be recorded in the Cadastre free of fees or charges. Likewise, local authorities may utilise their own properties under the same framework, subject to ministerial approval.
Finally, the bill includes provisions to support families with three or more children and persons with disabilities, aiming to promote social inclusion and strengthen independent living.
