While Israel\'s economy is slow and the Finance Ministry predicts a rise in unemployment, house sales in Jerusalem\'s newest neighborhood are up. Located on the south side of Jerusalem with a breathtaking view of the Judean Desert, Har Homa is a major center of building activity in the capital. The Housing and Construction Ministry says that its special, low-interest loans of NIS 100,000 ($23,750) for purchase of Har Homa and Pisgat Ze\'ev apartments are working. Eighty-seven Har Homa apartments were sold in July compared to 55 in the previous six months. Figures from the ministry also showed that 60 apartments were sold in Pisgat Ze\'ev last month, as opposed to 54 during the period January-June. The special deal, which includes an NIS 50,000 rebate on the loan, remains available for four months. Ministry sources admit that the government\'s lengthy debate over the efficacy of the special loan had many buyers postponing their purchases until the four-month program went into effect.
Certain blocks of buildings in Har Homa are designated for the religious public. Sylvie Krispin, who is organizing a group-purchase of such apartments, told Arutz-7 that a total of 6000 units are being built in Har Homa. \"In our project \'Ginot Ha\'ir,\' the 3,4 5, and 6-room homes are slated to be finished in March, 2002. However, the first 700 families will be moving into Har Homa in a few months. With the new road, Jerusalem\'s city center is a 7-minute drive away.\"
Certain blocks of buildings in Har Homa are designated for the religious public. Sylvie Krispin, who is organizing a group-purchase of such apartments, told Arutz-7 that a total of 6000 units are being built in Har Homa. \"In our project \'Ginot Ha\'ir,\' the 3,4 5, and 6-room homes are slated to be finished in March, 2002. However, the first 700 families will be moving into Har Homa in a few months. With the new road, Jerusalem\'s city center is a 7-minute drive away.\"