THE EDITOR, Sir:

Thank you for your January 10 feature article, which looked at the National Housing Trust's (NHT) policy and procedures for the sale of properties by private treaty. Please allow us the opportunity to clarify some misconceptions relating to the subject.

Many members of the public hold the view that private treaty properties are being sold at 'bargain' prices, and that the NHT's aim is merely to recover the amounts that are owing on the property. This perception was reinforced by your article. The fact is, however, that the trust's objective is to dispose of properties at market value, or as close to it as possible. Prospective buyers are therefore encouraged to make realistic appraisals of the property and to bid in keeping with such appraisals.

The article further stated that when persons are submitting their bid, they do not have to show evidence of having all the funds needed to purchase the property. This is not the case. The trust requires that the bidder presents documentary evidence of his/her ability to pay the purchase price and associated costs, with each bid.

I am, etc.,

SUZANNE WYNTER BURKE

National Housing Trust

Acting General Manager

Operations Division