State financed social housing model in South Africa requires capacity building injection

Abstract

This chapter is based on the premise of Social Housing Institutions (SHIs) sustainability mechanisms. It is informed largely by National Housing Finance Corporation's (NHFC's) research findings on social housing developments commissioned on its behalf. The broad aim of the study was to conduct an audit survey through a critical appraisal and analysis of one of South Africa's social housing projects. The methodological approach was primarily through a thorough literature and documentation review this study had examined in addition to quantitative findings; the definition of social housing as a concept and how it has been operationalized in different markets. According to the findings the low levels of employment, low levels of income and the lack of industries in the area suggest that the affordability levels of the project tenants are low.