​Rofhiwa Marubini 
For many, owning a house remains a mere dream, especially those who do not qualify for the free government homes or do not earn enough to buy a house on the open market. 
The good news is that the Gauteng Provincial Government in partnership with the national government, now offers ownership options to 'affordable or gap' households earning between R3,501 and R22,000 per month.  
If you can secure a mortgage loan – you may qualify for the Human Settlement Finance Linked Individual Subsidy Programme (FLISP).
This once-off subsidy is for first-time homeowners based on the income bracket. 
This can range between R28 000 and R121 00 which will be paid directly to an accredited banking or financial institution.
This subsidy can be used to reduce your initial monthly home loan instalments or put down as a deposit.
The maximum price of a property that can be financed through FLISP is R300 000.
A FLIPS beneficiary can buy an existing, new or old residential property or vacant serviced residential stand linked to National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC). 
To apply for FLISP, you must be in the process of purchasing a property.
You can also apply if the property was registered in your name in the past 12 months.
Any applications after this window period are currently not considered.
A budget of R461 million, which is expected to benefit 7 600 qualifying beneficiaries and leverage about R3.2 billion from private-sector financial institutions, has been set aside for this financial year.
Those who qualify for FLIPS can visit the provincial Department of Human Settlements and the local municipality with an identity card and proof of income.
For more information on the FLISP qualifying criteria visit National Housing Finance Corporation or call the (011) 644 9800, Email: info@nhfc.co.za