“Housing for Thais” Programme to Launch in January, Offering 1 Million Affordable Units
Bangkok, The Gulf Observer: The Thai government has announced the launch of the ambitious “Housing for Thais” programme, set to begin registration in January 2025. The initiative will provide 1 million fully-furnished, affordable housing units to the public, with initial units ready before the government’s tenure ends.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra unveiled the project during a televised address on Thursday, highlighting it as one of the key economic measures introduced during the government’s first three months in office. She emphasized that the programme aims to offer high-quality housing with 99-year leases and reduce financial barriers for Thai citizens.
Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Ms. Paetongtarn’s father, elaborated on the project during a seminar organized by the Pheu Thai Party in Hua Hin. He described the initiative as a step toward fulfilling the aspirations of citizens unable to afford rising housing costs or large down payments.
Affordable Living with No Down Payment
Thaksin explained that the programme will utilize unused state-owned land to build affordable homes. Graduates earning a monthly salary of 15,000 baht, for example, will only need to pay 4,000 baht in monthly instalments, leaving sufficient funds for daily expenses. “No down payment will be required, and financing will be arranged by the Government Housing Bank,” he said.
High-Quality Housing and Economic Boost
The homes will be fully furnished and include modern amenities, such as electronic bidet toilets, ensuring that the project is not viewed as housing for the poor but as an opportunity for individuals starting a new chapter in life. Thaksin noted that the project would boost the economy by encouraging private sector investment due to its relatively low construction costs.
Strategic Locations and Development Timeline
Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit revealed that the project will be developed on State Railway of Thailand (SRT) land. Three potential locations have been identified:
- The railway community in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district
- Areas near the Chiang Rak railway station in Pathum Thani
- Areas near the Chiang Mai railway station
An SRT survey found approximately 38,000 rai of unused land in Bangkok and surrounding provinces, which could be developed near railway stations and community hubs to maximize convenience and accessibility.
Launch Details
Model houses will be unveiled at Bang Sue Grand Station on January 20, with reservations opening the same month. The instalment payment period will extend up to 30 years, with ownership transfers permitted after five years of residence.
Promoting a Better Lifestyle
The initiative also aims to integrate with other government measures, such as a proposed 20-baht flat fare for electric train lines in Greater Bangkok. This holistic approach is intended to improve the quality of life for residents and support long-term economic growth.
“The ‘Housing for Thais’ project is not just about homes; it is about enabling dreams and creating opportunities,” Thaksin said, expressing optimism about the programme’s potential to transform lives and strengthen communities across the nation.
