The Ministry of VROMI has completed Sint Maarten’s Housing Policy 2025–2035, a major milestone aimed at tackling the island’s long-standing housing challenges. The announcement comes shortly after government finalized the purchase of the full Belvedere Remainder—288,402 m² of land earmarked for housing and cultural development.
Developed with support from the National Recovery Program Bureau, the policy outlines a clear vision: “Adequate housing for all Sint Maarteners in all stages of their lives.” The document addresses rising demand, high housing costs, limited land availability, and the need for more social and affordable options.
The plan sets a goal of 1,200 new homes over the next decade, including:
400 social housing units, with half reserved for elderly or vulnerable residents
500 affordable units for median-income households
300 free-market homes
At least 70% of new construction will emphasize densification—building upward, repurposing existing structures, and making better use of current land.
Mortgage Guarantee Fund to Support First-Time Buyers
Alongside the policy, VROMI is reactivating the Mortgage Guarantee Fund, originally created in 2000 to help first-time buyers who struggle to enter the market. A new three-member committee—Ronald Halman, Christian Grannum, and Raitza Naraine—has been appointed to guide its relaunch. The fund’s previous run recorded zero defaults, demonstrating its value for responsible homeownership.
Minister Patrice Gumbs will submit the policy to Parliament in Q1 2026, noting that housing reform requires collaboration among government, developers, banks, and the community.
“With this policy and the renewed Mortgage Guarantee Fund, we’re not just planning—we’re building Sint Maarten’s future,” the Minister said.
SEGUE 1 (Pre-commercial):
“Law enforcement agencies across Sint Maarten have been moving in sync this week—supported, supervised, and strengthened by the Ministry of Justice. Tonight, we take you inside the coordinated response shaping the island’s security strategy.”
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