Homeowner FAQ

A: Through volunteer labor and donations of money and materials, Habitat builds simple, decent, affordable homes in partnership with Habitat homeowner families and volunteers. Habitat homes are sold to partner families and financed with affordable, zero-interest loans. The homeowner is responsible for the monthly mortgage payment.  The revenue received from the mortgage payments is used to support Habitat’s programs.

Habitat is not a giveaway program. In addition to a down payment and the monthly mortgage payments, homeowners are required to invest a minimum of 300 – 400 hours of their own labor – “sweat equity” — into building their Habitat home and the homes of others.

A: You must be either a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident to qualify for a Habitat home.  In addition, you must reside or be employed within our affiliate boundaries in Grainger and Hamblen Counties for 12 consecutive months prior to applying.

A: Yes.  Habitat will work out a special arrangement by which you can satisfy Habitat’s “sweat equity” requirements through limited construction duties, work at the Recycling Hope Thrift Store, or by working in the office. In addition, modifications will be made during the construction of your home in order to make it accessible.

A: Yes, that is a key part of the Habitat program, which we call “sweat equity.” Homeowners work alongside Habitat staff and volunteers in the construction of their own homes and those of their neighbors.  Homeowners must satisfy the requirement of a minimum of 300 – 400 hours of “sweat equity.”

A: A homeowner can only begin their sweat equity hours once accepted into the Habitat program. However, you can volunteer with Habitat before completing the home application process to get a feel for the program.

A: Habitat can only build homes where Habitat lots are available. Habitat will build a home suitable for your family size.

A: The Applicant and Co-Applicant who will be the owner of the home. In the Dependents Section, everyone who will be living in the home will need to be listed. This includes children, parents, and significant others.

A: Yes,  the downpayment is $1800.00.

A: To be accepted into our program you must demonstrate income within our guidelines; we will combine all sources of applicant(s) income to determine the household income total. If you are retired or do not work, you must still have an income within our income guidelines.

A: We want to build homes for people to live in, not to sell, however at times homeowners do need to sell their homes . When selling the home all outstanding mortgages must be paid in full.