The government is carrying out a comprehensive reform of the housing support system. In 2027, the Wekerle housing program will be launched, under which affordable rental housing and student dormitories are to be built. At the same time, particular emphasis is placed on supporting home renovations and on restoring state subsidies for home savings projects.
The multi-year funding base for the Wekerle housing and student dormitory program consists of a total of EUR 550 million in EU funds, which may be supplemented by co-financing from banks and investors.
The “Wekerle+” loan program already launched on October 28 and replaces the previous “Otthon Start” program. Loan agreements already concluded under “Otthon Start” remain valid. Loans with a fixed interest rate of 3% are offered for the purchase and construction of new-build homes, and at 5% for existing properties. The maximum loan amount is HUF 50 million (EUR 136,700), and the interest subsidy can be granted for a maximum of 25 years. The price per square meter may not exceed HUF 1.5 million (EUR 4,100), the purchase price of apartments may not exceed HUF 100 million (EUR 273,400), and that of single-family homes HUF 150 million (EUR 410,100).
In addition, from 2027 the government will launch a comprehensive energy retrofit program, which is to apply not only to panel buildings but also to multi-family and single-family homes. The financial basis for this consists of more than HUF 600 billion (EUR 1.64 billion) from EU cohesion funds. The government plans to modernize at least 30,000 homes annually and 120,000 homes by 2030. Between 30% and 50% of the loan of up to HUF 15 million (EUR 41,000) is non-repayable. It can be used for thermal insulation, replacement of windows and doors, shading, and modernization of hot water systems. Gas boilers, however, are excluded. Heat pumps and solar systems, on the other hand, can receive subsidies of up to 20%.