Roma17 "The EDB says it's a housing allowance, so what do you mean?"
Where does it say this? It is clearly stated that it is a Special Allowance in their documentation/online
Regarding NET job with the EDB...The English speaking teachers here are generally well experienced in teaching abroad, as well as highly qualified, though there are of course some that are not (so much).
Don't let this discourage you. It is completely possible to get a good placement through the EDB but be prepared to wait, fill in forms, wait some more, work elsewhere in the meantime, wait some more, fill out your resume (charity work, relevant qualifications) wait some more. Finally, you too could be a teacher in a H.K. school.
Good luck.