This is why we build

Focused on providing a hand-up rather than a hand-out, Habitat for Humanity proves that decent housing can be a path out of poverty for families.

Homeownership Program

We believe everyone should have a safe, decent and affordable place to call home.

When families partner with Habitat, they start down a new path — one with far fewer barriers to a better, healthier, more financially stable life.

about the program

Families may find themselves in need of decent shelter due to a variety of circumstances — unpredictable rent increases, overcrowded living conditions, damaged or dilapidated structures, unsafe neighborhoods, or lack of access to land and affordable financing.

1. Characteristics of a

Habitat Homeowner

1. In need of better housing - unsafe neighborhood, inadequate housing, unaffordable rent, housing instability, overcrowding

2. Willing to partner with Habitat - homebuyers put in 250 hours of "sweat equity" building their own homes or volunteering for us in other ways.

3. Able to pay an affordable mortgage - GLHFH offers an affordable monthly mortgage payment and work to improve overall financial health and develop appropriate repayment plans to pay of existing debts.

2. Sweat Equity

Habitat does not give away houses, but instead offers homebuyers the opportunity to earn "sweat equity" building GLHFH homes. Utilizing volunteer labor and donations, Habitat is able to sell homes at no profit with affordable monthly mortgage payments. We also provide homebuyer education classes to help families build savings and improve their financial health in preparation for homeownership.

3. The Process

Habitat Homeownership is a long-term commitment and partnership between our affiliate and the homebuyer. The application process can take up to 6 months. If selected as a partner, the typical timeframe for buying your home and move in is an additional 18-24 months.

4. Apply for Homeownership

Over the next 5 years, we are building at least 11 homes. We will accept applications through the year during open enrollment periods to select our next homeowner-partners.
See below for more information.