HOMEOWNERSHIP
How do I become a Habitat homeowner? Many people think that Habitat for Humanity builds homes for the homeless. This is far from the truth. We build homes for families that are caught between the rising cost of homes and the salaries that they earn locally. We do not give homes to people, we sell homes at no profit and finance them with zero interest loans. For more information on homeownership, view the list of Ownership Requirements or click on the Homeowner Qualification Guidelines brochure in English* or Spanish* .
How does Habitat choose which family gets a home?
1. The ability to pay - Families must meet salary guidelines and other financial standards to prove that they can afford to pay for their home. Many people find that owning a Habitat home is less expensive each month than their current rent, however we must verify income and other financial information that you provide.
2. The willingness to partner - There is the expectation that each family will contribute between 400 and 600 hours toward the building of their home. You would need to be able to adjust your existing work and child care schedule to add the 8-12 hour weekly obligation.
3. Living in substandard housing - Habitat considers the current conditions of your house or apartment. Is the rent to high for your income? Are there dangerous aspects to the place in which you are livng? Is it overcrowded or are teenage children of different genders sharing rooms? We want to provide housing to families that cannot meet these community standards.
How does my family apply? You must attend an orientation in order to be considered for homeownership. These orientations are held four times each year, or as needed, at our offices. There are three ways to start the process:
1. You may pre-apply using our (on-line pre-application). This will allow us to get the basic information and to inform you when the next orientation will occur.
2. You can print out a pre-application form (*pdf) in English or in Spanish. Fill it out and mail it to us or drop it by our offices at:
Bend Area Habitat for Humanity
1860 NE 4th Street Bend OR 97701
3. Or, you may speak directly with our family coordinator, Sheila Pyott (541.385.5387 x225) or email Sheila.
We hope you will take this first step in your quest to secure safe, decent, affordable housing for you and your family.
