The Samoa Housing Corporation (SHC) announced on Friday that the $6 million government housing grant for first-time homeowners has been fully allocated for the current financial year. The announcement was made on SHC's official Facebook page.

The grant, part of the Housing Loan Facility, aims to support first-time homeowners and growing families across Samoa. The initiative provides affordable concessional financing, with features such as lower interest rates, flexible repayment terms, and tailored support for eligible families.

SHC said it will not accept new applications at this time, but members of the public can still visit the corporation to discuss their housing needs, receive advice, and prepare for the next round of applications.

The program empowers communities, building resilience and inspiring growth and is expected to continue in the next financial year, beginning in July 2026. SHC urged clients and stakeholders to stay updated via its official website and Facebook page for future announcements.

Members of the public have welcomed the announcement, saying this will help many secure loans.

Junior Uelese of Lotopa said this could be a way for him to build his first house.

"I am close to 30 years old, and I think such initiatives will allow people like me to build my first home. I acquired land three years ago, but could not move to building a house on it because of finances. Hopefully, when the criteria are announced, I will be eligible for a loan," he said.

"I have always wanted to build my own home. Mt wife and I are looking forward to this."

Maria Rosa of Vaitele is sceptical. She believes it will be tough getting a loan.

"The initiative is good, do not get me wrong. There will be thousands of people going after the loans. The fact remains that the money can only be given to so many people," she said.

"I hope the eligibility criteria will allow only low-income earners to get the assistance. It would be unfair if those on higher salaries are helped because they can go to a commercial bank.

"My other concern is that there could be favouritism when giving this assistance."

For 60-year-old, Peniamina Tuiletufuga of Vaitele, the assistance is a solution to solve the overcrowding situation in his home.

"This is the type of initiative that can help my children build their own homes. We have land but there are too many of us living in one house. This could help my children build their own homes. Hopefully, the criteria allows for that. But we are happy."