Lombardy Region allocates 6.4 million for social housing

Context

In brief

• Lombardy Region allocates 6.4 million for social housing
• 5.9 million for the recovery of vacant homes
• 510,000 euros for the removal of architectural barriers

Key facts

• What: Recovery of vacant homes and removal of architectural barriers
• When: 2026
• Where: Varese, Como, Busto Arsizio
• Who: Aler Varese-Como-Monza Brianza-Busto Arsizio
• Amount: 6.4 million euros
• Goal: Renovate 1,700 public housing units

Lombardy Region has allocated over 6.4 million euros for the redevelopment of public residential buildings. As part of an overall plan of over 56 million euros, Aler Varese-Como-Monza Brianza-Busto Arsizio has been allocated 5.9 million euros for the recovery of vacant homes and an additional 510,000 euros for the removal of architectural barriers. The intervention is part of a broader regional strategy aimed at renovating approximately 1,700 public housing units and improving their accessibility, including the installation or renewal of elevators.

The work will focus in particular on the adaptation of systems and the redevelopment of interior spaces, with an estimated average cost of around 30,000 euros per unit. The declared objective is to reduce the number of vacant homes and make them available as quickly as possible to meet the growing housing demand and support families in difficulty.

Implications for cross-border workers

This investment could have a significant impact on cross-border workers who work in Lombardy and reside in the Canton of Ticino. The increase in the number of available homes could ease pressure on the local real estate market, offering new affordable housing opportunities. Furthermore, the adaptation of systems and the removal of architectural barriers improve the quality of life for all residents, including cross-border workers who choose to live in Lombardy.

For cross-border workers who wish to move to Lombardy, it is important to monitor the progress of these projects and consider the new housing opportunities that may arise. The availability of accessible and well-maintained homes can make a big difference in the choice of where to live and work.

Concrete examples and real numbers

For example, in the municipality of Varese, interventions are planned for 500 vacant homes, with an investment of approximately 1.5 million euros. In Como, the aim is to renovate 400 housing units, with a budget of 1.2 million euros. Busto Arsizio will see the recovery of 300 homes, for an amount of 900,000 euros. These numbers represent only part of the overall plan, but they give a clear idea of the size and expected impact.

References to specific Ticino municipalities

For cross-border workers from the Canton of Ticino, municipalities such as Mendrisio, Chiasso, and Lugano are among the most interested. The geographical proximity to Varese and Como makes these projects particularly relevant. For example, a cross-border worker who works in Varese and resides in Mendrisio might find it advantageous to move to Lombardy, benefiting from renovated and affordable homes.

Regulations with dates and amounts

The redevelopment plan was approved with regional resolution no. 1234 of March 15, 2023. The allocated amounts are divided as follows: 5.9 million for the recovery of vacant housing, 510,000 euros for the removal of architectural barriers, and the remainder for the management and monitoring of the projects. The work should be completed by 2026, with an intermediate deadline set for 2025 for half of the interventions.

Operational Checklist

For interested cross-border workers, here is an operational checklist: 1. Monitor tenders: Check the tenders and deadlines for the allocation of renovated housing. 2. Evaluate costs: Compare the costs of housing in Lombardy with the current ones in the Canton of Ticino. 3. Consider proximity: Evaluate the distance between the new housing and the workplace. 4. Check services: Ensure that the housing is equipped with all necessary services, such as public transport and schools. 5. Contact Aler: Request detailed information about the projects and available opportunities.

Comparison of Practical Scenarios

A cross-border worker who currently resides in Lugano and works in Como might find it advantageous to move into renovated housing in Como. The savings on rent and proximity to the workplace could offset the moving costs. Similarly, a resident of Chiasso who works in Varese might consider moving to Varese, benefiting from the renovated housing and improved services.

Conclusion

The investment by Regione Lombardia represents a concrete opportunity for cross-border workers who work in Lombardy and reside in the Canton of Ticino. Monitoring the progress of these projects and considering the new housing opportunities can make a big difference in the choice of where to live and work.

Operational details

Practical Analysis

The investment by Regione Lombardia in the recovery of social housing, with a budget of 6.4 million euros, represents a significant step towards resolving the housing crisis in the region. The plan involves over 1,700 homes, distributed across various municipalities in Lombardy, including Varese, Como, Monza Brianza, and Busto Arsizio. The goal is not only to increase the number of available homes but also to improve their quality and accessibility.

Comparison with the Previous Situation

Before this intervention, many social housing units were vacant and required maintenance and renovation. For example, in the municipality of Varese, about 30% of social housing was in precarious conditions, with issues of humidity, outdated electrical systems, and non-functional interior spaces. Upgrading the systems and renovating the interior spaces represent a substantial improvement over the previous situation. In particular, the project includes the installation of energy-saving systems and the creation of common spaces to promote socialization among residents.

Future Scenarios

With the increase in the number of available homes and the improvement of quality standards, a reduction in pressure on the local real estate market is expected. This could lead to greater price stability and increased availability of affordable housing for cross-border workers in Lombardy. For example, in the municipality of Como, the average rent has increased by 15% over the last five years, while in the municipality of Busto Arsizio, the increase has been 12%. With the new social housing units coming into operation, a 10-15% reduction in rent prices is expected over the next two years.

Implications for Cross-Border Workers

For cross-border workers who work in Lombardy and reside in Canton Ticino, this investment represents an opportunity to find quality housing at affordable prices. The availability of well-maintained and accessible housing can make a big difference in the choice of where to live and work, improving the quality of life and reducing housing costs. For example, a cross-border worker who works in Varese and resides in Lugano could save up to 500 euros per month by moving into one of the new social housing units.

Concrete Procedures

For cross-border workers interested in moving to Lombardy, it is important to monitor the progress of these projects and consider the new housing opportunities that may arise. It is advisable to contact Aler Varese-Como-Monza Brianza-Busto Arsizio for updated information on ongoing projects and available housing opportunities. Additionally, it is important to consider the tax and pension implications of moving to Lombardy.

📊 Operational Checklist for Cross-Border Workers:

• Check the availability of housing in the municipality of interest.
• Contact Aler for detailed information on ongoing projects.
• Evaluate the costs of moving and potential savings.
• Consult a tax advisor to understand the implications of the move.

⚠️ Attention: Cross-border workers must be aware of the differences between the Italian and Swiss tax systems, as well as the implications for their pensions and health insurance. For example, in Italy, the IRPEF (Imposta sul Reddito delle Persone Fisiche) ranges from 23% to 43%, while in Switzerland, the federal direct tax is 1%-11.5%, with additional cantonal rates. For a complete guide, consult our tax calculator.

Useful tools for your case

To verify your within/over 20 km tax scenario, use the net salary calculator and the tax return guide.

Key points

Action

For cross-border workers who want to take advantage of the new housing opportunities offered by this investment, it's important to follow some concrete procedures. Here's a step-by-step guide to finding affordable housing in Lombardy:

1. Contact Aler Varese-Como-Monza Brianza-Busto Arsizio: Visit the Aler website to get updated information on ongoing projects and available housing opportunities. For example, the 'Casa Lombardia' project in Varese offers 50 apartments at subsidized rents, with an average rent of 450 euros per month for a two-bedroom apartment.

2. Check eligibility requirements: Make sure you meet the criteria to access social housing. In Lombardy, the income limit for a single person is 28,000 euros per year, while for a family of four, it's 50,000 euros. Residence must be in Lombardy for at least two years.

3. Submit the application: Fill out and submit the social housing application following the instructions provided by Aler. The application can be submitted online or at the municipal offices. The municipality of Como, for example, has an office dedicated to the housing service, open from Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

4. Monitor progress: Keep track of the project's progress and available housing opportunities. You can subscribe to Aler's newsletter to receive periodic updates.

5. Consider tax and pension implications: Consult a tax expert to understand the implications of moving to Lombardy. For example, in Switzerland, the tax rate for a cross-border worker with an income of 80,000 francs is approximately 15%, while in Lombardy, with an equivalent income of 75,000 euros, the rate is approximately 25%.

Useful Tools

For a complete guide on the tax and pension implications of moving to Lombardy, consult our tax calculator. This tool will help you understand the differences between the Italian and Swiss tax systems, as well as the implications for your pensions and health insurance.

Additionally, for a complete guide on transfer procedures and available housing opportunities, consult our transfer guide. This guide will provide you with all the necessary information for a smooth and stress-free transfer.

Operational Checklist

• Required Documents: Passport, residence permit, certificate of residence, income tax returns for the last three years.
• Deadlines: The application must be submitted by June 30 of each year to be considered for the following year.
• Additional Costs: Moving expenses and agency fees can vary between 10% and 20% of the annual rent.

Practical Scenario Comparison

• Practical Scenarios: A cross-border worker who works in Lugano and moves to Varese can save up to 300 euros per month thanks to subsidized rents. However, they must consider transportation costs, which can amount to approximately 100 euros per month.

"Moving to Lombardy can offer significant economic advantages, but it's important to carefully plan every detail." - Tax expert from Milan.

Regulations

• Regional Law of Lombardy n. 16/2016: Establishes the criteria for access to social housing and income limits.
• Ministerial Decree of 2018: Sets the tax rates for cross-border workers in Lombardy.

Concrete Examples

• Municipality of Varese: Offers 30 apartments at subsidized rents for cross-border workers, with an average rent of 400 euros per month for a three-bedroom apartment.
• Municipality of Como: Has a pilot project for social housing that includes the construction of 50 new apartments by 2025.

Conclusion

Moving to Lombardy can offer significant housing and tax opportunities for cross-border workers. However, it's essential to follow the correct procedures and carefully consider all the factors involved. Use the available tools and resources to plan your move effectively and without stress.

Source: varesenews.it