Department helps tenants to buy their own home

Jack and Samantha Dzik - happy new home owners

The department's Sales to Tenants program has helped Samantha and Jack Dzik purchase the department-owned house they were renting in Brisbane for the past eight years.

Samantha said she found out about the Sales to Tenants program three years ago.

"I phoned the department to discuss my options, and they told me about the program," Samantha said.

"We wanted somewhere stable to live and were happy to enter the market."

The Sales to Tenants program provides an opportunity for tenants to make the move to home ownership by purchasing the department-owned dwelling they rent.

During the 2008-2009 period, 82 social housing households bought the property they had rented from the department. The revenue raised through those sales was reinvested into providing more social housing in high demand areas.

Samantha and Jack found purchasing their home through the Sales to Tenants program easy.

"The departmental staff were very helpful and quick to answer any questions," Samantha said.

"We're glad we did it as we know our neighbours and love the quiet area."

And their advice for tenants thinking of purchasing the property they are renting?

"If you're in the position, just do it. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. It's the best thing we've ever done," Samantha said.

"We're ecstatic to own our own piece of Australia," Jack said.

It is important to note that not all departmental properties can be considered for sale and conditions apply.

If you are interested in purchasing a departmental home, contact your nearest Housing Services office.