The Azores Regional Government received more than 250 applications for a public program offering 13 homes under a rent-to-own model in the parish of São Brás, underscoring the growing demand for affordable housing solutions. The figures come as a new application process opens for 92 additional units in Santa Cruz, in the municipality of Praia da Vitória.

“The assessment by the Regional Directorate for Housing confirms a significant demand for this type of housing,” José Vieira, head of the Housing Division on Terceira Island, told Diário Insular. “As an example, the public tender launched in the second half of 2025 for 13 homes in the São Brás development attracted 257 applicants.”

The 13 units—two-, three-, and four-bedroom homes—were delivered in January under a rent-to-own scheme. Built with funding from Portugal’s Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR), monthly rents ranged from €360.79 to €511.14.

Housing shortages on Terceira are further reflected in the “very significant number of families”—more than 800 households—currently receiving rental assistance. According to Vieira, many of these families paying higher rents may have a strong interest in transitioning to rent-to-own opportunities.

Additional Support Programs

For those who do not meet eligibility criteria for rent-to-own programs, several other forms of assistance are available.

One option is the “Famílias com Futuro” (Families with a Future) program, specifically designed to address severe housing shortages. It provides access to government-owned housing under subsidized rent, with payments adjusted based on household size and income. Applications are open annually from April 1 to June 30.

The same program also includes a rental incentive component, offering financial support to help families pay rent in privately selected housing. Applications for this option are accepted in May for applicants up to age 35, and from August 1 to September 15 for all age groups.

Additionally, the regional government offers financial assistance for the purchase or construction of a primary residence. Applications for this support are open from April 1 through December 31 each year.

Together, these initiatives aim to address mounting housing pressures while expanding access to stable and affordable living options across the island.

In Diário Insular-José Lourenço-director