Family Selection
Selection of a family is based upon the level of need, willingness to partner with Habitat, and ability to repay the no-profit, no-interest loan. Basic requirements are as follows:
- Applicants must be unable to obtain a home mortgage through regular means.
- Applicants must be in need of affordable and decent housing. Families who live in substandard conditions such as overcrowding, inadequate utilities, structural problems, and dangerous neighborhoods may be considered for Habitat ownership.
- Applicants must meet Habitat income guidelines and be able to repay a no profit, no interest mortgage.
- Applicants must be willing to partner with Habitat, agreeing to complete the required hours of sweat equity, and attend required classes that assist the family in acquiring skills needed for responsible homeownership.
- Applicants must understand that a review will be conducted by the Family Services Committee to determine actual need, ability to repay the mortgage loan, and willingness to partner with Habitat for Humanity.
Income Guidelines
Income guidelines are based on HUD guidelines for Washington County and change every year. Housing burden cannot exceed 30% of family’s total income including child support, trusts and SSI to qualify.
The steps involved in the application process are as follows:
- Interested parties should call the Habitat office to see if they meet the income guidelines. If that guideline is met an application will be mailed to the applicant. When applicant has gathered the required information and completed the application they need to again call the Habitat office and set up an appointment for interview with a Family Service representative and/or staff.
- The application is reviewed to verify income, current housing situation, residency, and credit history. Applicant must be a U.S. citizen and a Washington County resident for at least one year.
- If there are any questions or concerns either a representative from Family Services or a staff member will request another meeting with the applicant, either face to face or on the telephone.
- During the verification process Family Service representatives will visit the applicant’s present home to meet the family and review the current housing situation.
- The Family Services committee will take the application to the Habitat for Humanity Board of Directors for review once all criteria have been successfully met.
Habitat for Humanity of Washington County is an equal opportunity housing organization. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.
