Becoming a Homeowner

Becoming a homeowner is only a dream for many families. Paying too much rent for poorly maintained housing can seem like a vicious cycle that is impossible to escape. There is a way out! Habitat for Humanity's Homeownership Program may be the answer to your prayers. The path to homeownership through Habitat for Humanity is an in-depth process requiring hard work, time, and dedication.

Habitat does not give homes away. Families partner with Habitat by investing "sweat equity" as they work to build houses and attend homeowner education classes. This takes approximately 12 to 18 months to complete. Once a family successfully completes the Homeownership Program, the home is sold to the family with an affordable, no-interest mortgage. We follow a nondiscriminatory policy of homebuyer selection and are accountable to mortgage lending laws.

Download Homeowner Application Packet

Qualifications for the Homeownership Program

1) Need for Affordable Housing

  • Current living conditions are overcrowded, substandard, or public housing.
  • Cannot have owned a home within the last 3 years.
  • Current rent and/or utility costs are excessive.
  • Current rent exceeds 30% of gross income.

2) Ability to Pay

  • Applicants must have the ability to pay an affordable no-interest mortgage.
  • Income should be stable and verifiable. Annual income must fall within Caldwell County Habitat's income guidelines.
  • Habitat mortgage payments should not exceed 30% of gross income.
  • The total of Habitat mortgage payments and the applicants' debt should not exceed 40% of gross income.
  • Applicants must have satisfactory credit demonstrating both the ability and willingness to repay the mortgage.

3) Willingness to Partner

  • The applicant should live and/or work in Caldwell County within 12 months before application.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
  • Applicants should be willing to help build not only their houses but also the houses of other applicants.
  • Should be willing to attend homeowner education classes.
  • Should prepare and maintain a personal budget.
  • Applicant should be able to pass a criminal background investigation.