ORANJESTAD, St. Eustatius – The first residents of Golden Rock have formally become owners of their homes under a government sales program that has been under consideration for more than a decade.
Three residents signed their deeds of transfer before a notary on Friday, October 9, following the first transfer on October 2. More eligible tenants are expected to complete the process in the coming week.
Acting Island Governor Sharon Hassell signed the deeds on behalf of the Public Entity St. Eustatius. Commissioner Reuben Merkman, who holds the housing portfolio, was also present.
The initiative dates back to 2015, when the Island Council endorsed plans to give Golden Rock residents the opportunity to purchase their homes. Implementation was subsequently delayed by legal and administrative issues.
A cooperation agreement between the Public Entity, the Statia Housing Foundation and the Dutch Ministry responsible for housing was reached in June 2022. In February 2025, the Island Council unanimously approved the sale of 25 homes, clearing the way for the process to continue.
The formal sales process started in January this year. Each property has been individually appraised.
According to the government, proceeds from the sales will be reinvested in the renovation of social housing on St. Eustatius.
Merkman said reaching the transfer stage had required years of preparation and cooperation between different organizations and government departments. He said homeownership could provide residents with greater long-term security and enable families to build assets for future generations.
Further transfers are expected as the remaining eligible tenants complete the required procedures.
