What is social housing (VIS)?

In Colombia, 4.8 million households live with some type of housing deficiency. For many of them, buying a house on the traditional market is impossible, and that's where a figure that needs to be understood comes into play: the social housing.

If you've ever heard about VIS, VIP, or housing subsidies and were left with more questions than answers, this text clarifies what each one is, who it's for, and what happens to families who still can't get their own roof over their heads.

What is social housing?

The social housing (VIS) is housing with a price cap regulated by the State, designed for low-income households. The idea is simple: to put a limit on the value of the house so that low-income families can access formal housing, with services and proper title deeds.

It's not "poor quality" housing. It's new or used housing whose maximum price is set by law, precisely to prevent it from skyrocketing and excluding those who need it most. The exact price limits are updated by the government, so it's always best to confirm them with an official source like the [unclear - possibly "source name" or "source name"]. Ministry of Housing.

difference between VIS and VIP

Here's the most common misconception. VIP (Priority Interest Housing) isn't separate from VIS (Social Interest Housing): it's the most affordable segment within it. Think of it as two steps on the same ladder.

Social housing (VIS) encompasses all regulated-price housing for low-income households. VIP is the lowest-priced segment within this category, aimed at the most vulnerable families, who typically require greater government support to purchase housing. All VIP housing is classified as VIS, but not all VIS housing is VIP.

who the subsidies are for and how they are distributed

The social housing It is aimed at households that could not buy on the open market: low-income families, often without a solid credit history or large savings.

To bridge the gap between what a family can afford and the cost of a house, the government offers subsidies. Generally speaking, they work like this:

• A state contribution that covers part of the value of the home.
• Household savings, however modest.
• A mortgage or lease for the remaining balance.

The combination of these three components is what makes a house that would otherwise be out of reach attainable. The amounts and requirements vary depending on the current program, so it's always worth checking them with the Ministry of Housing before making any decisions.

when even VIS isn't enough

Here's the part that few people talk about. There are families who, even with subsidies and price-regulated housing, don't qualify for a loan or can't afford a monthly payment. For them, social housing remains a closed door.

He housing deficit in Colombia This is confirmed: the 75% problem is qualitative, meaning families who already have a roof over their heads but live with dirt floors, without potable water, or in unsafe structures. They don't need to buy another house: they need to improve the one they live in.

That's where the work of foundations like ours comes in. At Hepacom we build and improve decent housing For households excluded from the formal system, without requiring them to take out loans they can't afford. We do this through donations, volunteer work, and partners who believe that a solid foundation shouldn't be a luxury.

What can you do?

Understanding how the VIS (Social Interest Housing) works is a first step: it allows you to guide a family member or neighbor who qualifies for a subsidy. But for families who fall below that threshold, the path is different.

You can see our housing projects Get involved and join as a donor or volunteer. Every contribution translates into floors, roofs, and walls for a family currently living in conditions no one should have to endure.

VIS and VIP: how do they differ when buying

Social housing (VIS) and priority housing (VIP) are often mentioned together, but they target different populations and have different price ceilings. This table compares them in their essential aspects. Exact values are set in minimum wages (SMMLV) and may change annually, so it's advisable to confirm them with the Ministry of Housing or the compensation fund before making a decision.

Aspect	VIS	VIP
Who is it aimed at?	Lower-middle income households	Low-income households
Price cap	Higher than VIP (defined in SMMLV)	The lower of the two options
Access to subsidy	Yes, depending on income and requirements.	Yes, with priority given to vulnerable populations.

General differences between VIS and VIP. The price limits in minimum monthly wages are updated annually; check the current ones at the Ministry of Housing.

Common mistakes when looking for social housing

• Confusing VIS with VIP: These are different options with different limits and priorities; choosing the wrong one can leave you out of the appropriate subsidy.
• Assuming that anyone qualifies: The subsidy depends on income, not being a property owner, and other requirements that should be reviewed beforehand.
• Do not confirm the current limit: The values change with the SMMLV each year; using an outdated figure leads to budget errors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is social housing free?

No. Social housing (VIS) has a regulated price, but the family must pay for it, usually with a combination of government subsidy, personal savings, and credit. The subsidy reduces the cost, it doesn't eliminate it.

What is the difference between VIS and VIP?

VIP is the most affordable segment within VIS (Social Interest Housing), aimed at the most vulnerable households. All VIP housing is VIS, but VIS also includes higher-value tiers.

Who sets the price caps for VIS (Social Interest Housing)?

The National Government, through the Ministry of Housing, periodically updates the maximum values. Therefore, it is advisable to confirm the current figures directly on their official website.

What happens if my family doesn't qualify for a VIS?

Many households cannot afford housing even with subsidies. For these cases, there are foundations that improve or build homes with community support. You can learn about our projects and how we help.

This guide is part of our Complete guide to decent housing in Colombia, where we bring together how to access housing and how to help another family have their own.