The question “What is COHAB?” It is common among many people throughout Brazil, and access to housing is one of the fundamental human rights, crucial for social stability and development.
In Brazil, several initiatives were created to facilitate access to decent housing, especially for the low-income population. Among these initiatives, Popular Housing Companies, known as COHABs, play a central role.
This article explores the concept of COHAB, its history, objectives and impact on the country's housing scenario, so continue reading to resolve all your doubts regarding the subject.
What is COHAB?
What is COHAB is the acronym for Housing Company. These are entities linked to state or municipal governments whose main objective is to facilitate access to housing for the poorest sections of the population.
COHABs operate mainly in the construction of housing complexes and in the administration of housing financing programs.
History of COHABs
The idea of creating specialized housing bodies in Brazil emerged in the 1960s, in response to rapid urban growth and the resulting housing deficit.
The first COHABs were established as part of a broader policy for urban development and the reduction of social inequalities through access to housing.
Functions and activities of COHABs
Planning and Construction
Now that you know What is COHAB?, it is interesting to comment that one of the main functions of COHABs is the planning and construction of housing complexes.
These projects are generally aimed at families with an income of less than three minimum wages, and the houses are sold at subsidized prices.
The process includes not only the construction of housing units, but also the development of the necessary infrastructure, such as basic sanitation, electricity and access roads.
Housing Financing
In addition to building, COHABs often facilitate housing financing through partnerships with public banks, such as CEF.
They assist buyers throughout the entire process, from registration to finalization of the purchase, ensuring that low-income families can purchase their property with payment conditions adjusted to your economic reality.
Land regularization
Another important activity of COHABs is land regularization. Many families live in irregular occupations or in risky areas.
COHABs work to legalize these occupations, guaranteeing the right to property through formal title deeds, which also contributes to social inclusion and access to public services.
Challenges and criticism
Despite their good intentions and positive results in many cases, What is COHAB? faces several challenges and criticisms. One of the main problems is the bureaucracy involved in the housing process, which is often slow and complex, frustrating potential beneficiaries.
Furthermore, the quality of housing and built neighborhoods has been questioned, as has the location of projects, often in areas far from urban centers, which makes access to jobs and services difficult.
Social impact of COHABs
Despite the criticism, one cannot deny the positive impact of What is COHAB? in Brazil. Millions of Brazilians benefited from having their own homes, which contributed to reducing the housing deficit and improving the living conditions of many families.
The existence of COHABs also stimulates the civil construction market, creates jobs and promotes economic development.
COHAB what it is: final considerations
COHABs are fundamental in the Brazilian housing context, especially in a country with great social inequalities and a high number of people without access to adequate housing.
While they face significant challenges, the role of these companies is essential to ensure that the right to housing, as provided for in the Constitution, is a reality for all Brazilians.
It is essential that public policies continue to support and improve the work of COHABs, ensuring that their mission of providing decent housing is fulfilled in an efficient and sustainable way.