The law on subsidized housing loans in Serbia has been expanded to include auxiliary buildings, prefabricated houses on parents’ land, and to allow unemployed individuals to have a guarantor who is not a close family member. The state assumes the mortgage registration fee, and programs are linked with social support, including assistance to mothers who give birth to their first child. More than 5,000 young people under 35 have applied for these loans, and over 1,000 contracts have already been signed. The law is supported by eight commercial banks and represents the fastest and cheapest way for young people to acquire their first home. Additionally, the law includes other infrastructural and economic measures, such as highway construction and support for EPS.
Political Perspectives:
Left: The left-leaning coverage emphasizes the social support aspects of the subsidized housing loans, highlighting the inclusion of unemployed individuals and mothers with newborns. It focuses on the state’s role in reducing financial barriers for young people and promoting social equity through housing accessibility.
Center: Center-leaning reports present a balanced view, focusing on the practical benefits of the law such as expanded eligibility, state assumption of mortgage fees, and the involvement of multiple commercial banks. They highlight the law as a pragmatic solution to housing challenges faced by young people in Serbia.
Right: Right-leaning narratives emphasize economic development and infrastructure improvements alongside the housing loans. They highlight the support for commercial banks, the role of private sector involvement, and the broader economic policies aimed at raising living standards and improving connectivity through projects like highway construction.