Hongfu Gardens | Government clarifies that owners will continue to receive accommodation and rental subsidy support until long-term housing arrangements are fully implemented

Local media quoted individual owners of Hong Fu Court stating that, upon accepting government acquisition of their property rights and receiving cash, or choosing the “Special Sale Scheme” or “Flat Exchange” and receiving the keys to a new home, they must move out of transitional housing within 30 days and will no longer receive rent subsidies. A government spokesperson clarified that these reports are not true. Until Hong Fu Court owners establish long-term residence arrangements, the government will continue to support affected residents with housing and rent allowances.

The Housing Bureau emphasized that all transitional housing operators have always provided flexible relocation arrangements for residents in need. The 30-day period is not a strict requirement; operators will arrange for residents to continue temporarily renting transitional units based on their actual needs, such as completing renovations of new homes and moving. For Hong Fu Court residents, whether they choose to arrange long-term housing themselves, participate in the “Special Sale Scheme,” or opt for a “Flat Exchange,” the above arrangements apply equally.

Regarding rent subsidies, the Tai Po Hong Fu Court Assistance Fund announced in December last year that it would provide each Hong Fu Court unit owner with an annual rent subsidy of HKD 150,000. The subsidy lasts for two years, paid out every six months, with each disbursement of HKD 75,000.

If owners choose to sell their property rights for cash and do not participate in the “Special Sale Scheme,” the rent subsidy will be paid until the relevant funds are credited to their accounts, allowing owners to use the cash for long-term housing arrangements. The rent subsidy received before the funds are credited does not need to be repaid, but no further subsidies will be issued in the next period.

If owners choose to participate in the “Special Sale Scheme,” the rent subsidy will continue until the date they receive the keys to the subsidized sale unit (i.e., the date they take possession of the unit). Once their long-term housing needs are properly arranged, any rent subsidy received before moving in does not need to be repaid, and no further subsidies will be issued. The Housing Bureau’s “Explanation Team” will clearly explain the arrangements to Hong Fu Court owners.