The guidelines for homeownership with our program are as follows:
- Applicants must have unsuccessfully applied for a traditional mortgage. Our mission is to serve families who cannot obtain housing through traditional means, such as a bank or another low-income housing organization.
- Applicants must be currently living in substandard housingand have lived in our service area for at least one year, the most recent year prior to application.
- Applicants must be willing to partner with Habitat for Humanity by contributing a minimum of 500 hours of sweat equityto the organization which includes helping at events, representing Habitat for Humanity in the community, construction on the homes in the program, and other volunteer tasks as needed.
- Applicants must be able to pay back the home mortgages. Applicants must show a strong history of steady income for the past two years. Minimum monthly income is between $800 to $1,400, depending on family size. This includes paid wages as well as all other income sources such as government benefits, disability, and social security.
The application process includes a credit check, homeownership classes, references and a home visit. An initial 20-30 hours of sweat equity is contributed by the applicant before the application is presented before the Board of Directors. Applicants should be aware that building and owning a Habitat home is a slow process requiring patience. It takes a year, often longer, for a successful applicant to obtain a home.
Applicants should also be aware that Habitat Homeowners are our best source of public relations for the program and often much publicity and socializing with volunteers becomes part of the process. Applicants should consider carefully whether you are willing to become a part of this process.
If you agree with our philosophy and meet the program guidelines, please call and request an Application for Housing and Release & Waiver Forms. If your application meets the qualifications of our program, the Family Selection Committee will contact you and schedule a Home Visit. Copies of additional documents will be requested after the Home Visit. If you have any questions or need more information please feel free to contact us at any time.
Most sincerely,
The Family Selection Committee
(719) 589-8678