Government Unveils New Low-Income Housing Models to Close Gap for Struggling Families

The government has announced the launch of two new low-income housing models aimed at residents who earn too little to qualify for traditional mortgages but too much to be eligible for indigent-support programmes, an issue that has long left many Antiguans and Barbudans stuck in a housing “no man’s land.”

Housing Minister Maria Browne revealed the initiative during her contribution to the 2026 National Budget Debate, noting that the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHAPA) has already made the new homes available.

She said the project responds to years of appeals from citizens who have repeatedly expressed frustration over being locked out of homeownership despite working full-time.

“We heard the cries from many of those affected by this dilemma,” Browne said. “They are not indigent enough to qualify for the HAPI programme, yet they are not making a sufficient salary to secure a loan for the already subsidized homes on the market. So today, I am happy to announce two new model homes that specifically target this bracket.”

The new homes, the Argenta, priced at $131,500, and the St. George, priced at $117,100—both feature two bedrooms and two bathrooms and are built using modern, climate-resilient, modular construction.

Browne described the units as starter homes designed for long-term family growth, emphasizing that modular construction enables easy extensions as owners’ financial situations improve. “You are looking at a home that can be passed on from generation to generation,” she said, underscoring the government’s intent to create lasting value for low-income families.

Construction of the first 70 homes will take place across several communities in Barbuda, including Stadium Heights, Belmont, Table Hill Gordon, Willikies, and Louis Hill.

The housing minister said the rollout will provide meaningful opportunities for residents who have waited years for a practical and attainable path to homeownership.

The announcement marks one of the most significant housing interventions to address the affordability gap and is expected to provide relief to dozens of families currently squeezed between rising living costs and limited financing options.