HOUSING PROJECT PROVIDES HOMEOWNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES FOR FAMILIES

Saskatchewan Housing Corporation announced today that an addition to Regina's affordable housing market, Maple Leaf Estates, is enabling 29 low- to moderate-income families to live their dream of homeownership. The first families moved in on March 1, 2008, with possession dates for the remaining families being staggered over the next few weeks.

Maple Leaf Estates, a safe, environmentally-friendly and affordable homeownership option, integrates the goals of the province's HomeFirst Homeownership Program and the City of Regina's Inner City Revitalization initiative.

"This project is about providing families with an opportunity to purchase their own home at an affordable cost and make their lives more comfortable and enjoyable," Social Services Minister Donna Harpauer said. "Our government is committed to meeting the diverse housing needs of this province and helping to secure the futures of Saskatchewan people."

"The Maple Leaf Estates housing project is another great example of what can be accomplished when we work together to help families realize the dream of homeownership," Regina Mayor Pat Fiacco said. "This project fits well with City Council's vision of a vibrant, inclusive, attractive, sustainable community where people live in harmony and thrive in opportunity."

Under the HomeFirst Homeownership Program, eligible families can obtain a forgivable loan of up to $20,000 and a repayable low-interest mortgage of up to $30,000. Families are also eligible for a five-year property tax exemption under the City of Regina's Inner City Revitalization strategy. Program eligibility depends on criteria such as the applicant's income, current housing situation and number of dependents.

Located at 2100 Toronto Street and 1200 14th Avenue on the former St. Joseph school site, the 29 homes consist of three two-bedroom bungalows designed to accommodate mobility limitations and 26 three-bedroom, two-storey units. There are nine different house plans, each about 900 square feet in size.

Each unit has been constructed to meet R2000 energy efficiency standards, which will help families live in comfort and benefit from reduced energy costs. Other features include high efficiency furnaces and water heaters, and an option to purchase affordable, energy efficient major appliances.

Saskatchewan Housing Corporation is working with the City of Regina on zoning approval for phase two of Maple Leaf Estates. Phase two will see another 55 units built for low- to moderate-income residents.

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For more information, contact:

Linda Saliken
Ministry of Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0246

Mark Rathwell
City of Regina
Regina
Phone: 306-777-7309