The request comes after numerous reports from journalists, investors, and homebuyers about fraudulent practices in the affordable housing market.

Some brokers falsely claim to offer "reserved slots" or fast-tracked application processing in exchange for fees ranging from hundreds of millions to over a billion VND per unit.

Tighter controls on social housing applications

Despite many ongoing social housing projects in Hanoi, most have not yet begun accepting applications. However, online platforms and real estate forums have seen a surge in advertisements from brokers offering "exclusive deals" on units that are not yet available for sale.

In response, the Hanoi Department of Construction has instructed the city police to closely monitor and take action against any agents engaging in fraudulent activities related to:

Submitting applications on behalf of buyers
Charging fees for guaranteed approvals
Selling priority slots in upcoming projects

"Any fraudulent activities related to social housing applications will be prosecuted, even if they are discovered after the fact," the department warned.

The department also emphasized that:

Applicants must submit their documents directly to the developer - not through third-party brokers.
Local authorities must provide clear guidelines to residents on how to apply for social housing without intermediaries.
Government offices must streamline housing application processes to reduce opportunities for fraud.

Upcoming social housing projects in Hanoi

Hanoi currently has several social housing projects in development, with one expected to start accepting applications in Q4 2025:

Ha Dinh social housing project (Tan Trieu, Thanh Tri District) 
440 apartments, including 255 for sale, 37 rent-to-own units, and 73 rental units.
Projected price: 25 million VND/m² ($1,000/m²)
Estimated rent: 150,000 VND/m²/month ($6/m²/month)
Rent-to-own rate: 390,000 VND/m²/month ($15.60/m²/month)

Other projects are still in the early stages and have not yet announced sales or application timelines, including:

Kim Chung social housing project (Dong Anh District)
Built by Handico and Viglacera
Expected price: 18.4 million VND/m² ($736/m²)
Uy No social housing project (Dong Anh District)
4 buildings, 9 floors each
466 apartments
Completion date: October 2026

Authorities warn that no units from these projects are currently available for sale. Developers will publicly announce application periods and pricing once officially approved.

By enforcing strict regulations and increasing oversight, Hanoi aims to ensure fair access to social housing and protect buyers from fraudulent brokers.

Hong Khanh