100th signature of the Zero Interest Loan+

By Batipole Edition Published on Friday, May 13, 2011 at 02:00 AM

Photo credits : BATIPOLE

Summary for decision-makers

The Zero-Rate Loan (PTZ+), in effect since January 1, 2011, is geared toward first-time buyers, with no means tests. This scheme, which covers the interest on the loan, is tailored based on various criteria, including income level, family size, geographic location, and the energy efficiency of the home. Four months after its launch, it has been observed that low-income households represent only 20% of buyers, while benefiting from 37% of the authorized aid. In contrast, the most affluent households, although representing 46% of beneficiaries, absorb only 10% of the total cost of the aid granted by the PTZ+.

In addition, the PTZ+ aims to promote both new and existing buildings as part of an energy-efficient approach. In 2011, 16,3% of PTZ+ loans were granted to low-energy buildings (BBC), compared to 10% the previous year, and 56% of loans for existing buildings concerned homes meeting energy performance criteria. Assessed in light of the government's objective, reaching 380 PTZ+ loans per year is achievable, thus reinforcing the commitment to home ownership.

On May 9, the 100th zero-interest loan (PTZ+) was signed in the presence of the Minister of Housing, Nathalie Kosciusko-Morizet, and the Secretary of State, Benoist Apparu.

PTZ+ review: a step forward for home ownership

Implemented since January 1, 2011, this new version of the Zero-Interest Loan is reserved for first-time buyers who are no longer subject to income requirements. The loan interest is covered by the government, and the amount varies depending on:

- income level
- the size of the family
- geographical location
- of the dwelling
- energy performance
- the new or old character of the habitat.

Four months after its launch, it was found that the most modest households only represent 20 % buyers but benefit from 37 % authorized aid. Conversely, the wealthiest brackets constitute 46 % beneficiaries but their share only represents 10 % of the total cost of the PTZ+.

On the other hand, in view of the ambition to promote demand for new or old energy-efficient housing, the PTZ+ is increasingly granted for Low-Energy Buildings (LEB) in new buildings. In fact, this share represents 16,3% of all PTZ+ loans compared to 10% in the 2010 PTZ version. And for the old, the number of energy-efficient homes represents 56% of all loans granted.

In view of the constant increase in PTZ+, the government's ambition of reaching 380 PTZ+ per year should be achievable for 000.