Homeownership Program

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How often do you have applications open?

Our application cycles are set based on our current construction schedules. When we have a home or homes ready to build, applications become available. You can join our email list to be notified of any upcoming open application cycles using the form below. 

2. Can I apply as a single applicant if I am still legally married but living separately from my spouse?

No. If you are legally married, Habitat requires that both spouses be part of the application and apply as co-applicants. We cannot accept your application if you are separated but not legally divorced. Divorce must be final before an application is considered.

3. Can I apply if I have filed for bankruptcy?

Yes, but the bankruptcy release date must be at least 3 years old.

​

4. Do I have to be a US citizen to apply?

To apply you must be a US citizen or Permanent Resident. This applies to all applicants and co-applicants. 

5. Who can be a part of my household? How is my household size determined?

Individuals who are currently living together in the household can be considered when determining household size. A child is only considered in the household size if the applicant has at least 50% custody of that child. Legal guardianship documents must be provided for children you are raising but that are not your biological children. Minor children claimed on your Federal Tax Returns must be listed as dependents/household members on your application. We will require verification of custody of all minor children not claimed on your Federal Tax Returns but are listed on your application. If a person is pregnant during the application process, the unborn child will be counted towards the household size. 

​

6. What types of income are counted when I apply?

• All adult household members' income is considered.

• All forms of permanent income are included as a part of the household income and will be considered.

• All income must be documented.

• If an applicant or household member is receiving child support or alimony (and wants it to be considered), they must include a copy of the court order for those payments with their application.

• If an applicant or household member is receiving SSI, Disability, TANF, or Social Security, they must provide a copy of a current monthly statement with their application.

• Temporary income will not be considered.

• Food stamps, SNAP, Section 8, and unemployment benefits are not counted as income.

​7. How do I verify my income if I get paid in cash?

In order to verify cash income, you must deposit earnings into the same bank account each time you get paid. The cash income must be reported on your IRS Form 1040 when you file taxes. ​​

​

8. Do I have to have a job to become a Habitat homeowner?

Habitat requires that you receive enough monthly income to be able to afford a Habitat home. Affordability is determined through income such as work, child support, SSI, or other sources. Your mortgage payment cannot exceed 30% of your total monthly income. Refer to application details for minimum income requirements.

9. Does Habitat require a certain score on a credit report?

Habitat may use credit scores as a basis for creditworthiness. We look at good debt and bad debt levels. "Good debt" is an account that is being paid on time; "bad debt" is an account that has gone to collections and/or charged off. In order to apply, your bad debt must be less than $1,000, except for medical collections.

​

10. If my credit is good, but my co-applicant's credit is not, can I apply?

Both applicants' credit will be subject to the same criteria.

​

11. Can I apply for a Habitat home if I previously owned another home?

Habitat for Humanity is a first time homebuyer program. If you owned a home in the past you will need to wait 3 years to become a first time homebuyer again.

​

12. If I am accepted into the program, how long before I purchase my home?

The typical time for completing the program is within 9-12 months, after which the purchase process begins. It depends on a variety of factors, including how long it takes you to complete all requirements, Habitat’s current construction schedule, and other considerations.