The Homeownership Process

1. It starts by attending a mandatory orientation. You can check with DeeDee Johnson (541.385.5387 x227 - djohnson@bendhabitat.org ) or see the Upcoming Orientations page.

2. Application must be submitted. The FULL applications are handed out at the orientations and you will have a designated period of time in which to complete and return that applcation. It will ask for financial information, personal information, housing and utility records, references and much more.

3.Your complete application will go under a financial review by our Family Services committee. You will either advance to the next step or be counseled on your options if you do not qualify financially.

4. For those moving to the next step, we will schedule a home visit to determine your willingness to partner with us in completing your sweat equity and determine the condition of your current housing situation. Both of these factors are part of the selection criteria.

5. After these visits, each applicant is reviewed by a selection committee of volunteers from our community. Each applicant will receive notification of their acceptance into the program or their denial.

This process takes about 2-3 months to complete.

Those accepted will:

1. Be scheduled to come to the office to sign a Welcome Letter. This letter outlines the homeownership process and tells the homeowner what their responsibilities will be and what Habitat for Humanity will be expected to do.

2. Start their 400 - 600 hours of sweat equity. This will include:

a. Attending manditory classes and workshops

b. Put in the required construction hours as well as Restore volunteer hours

3. Start a savings account that will assist them in saving the closing costs and first year's taxes and insurance.

4. Participate in fundraising events to help raise the funds needed to build their home.

This process takes 12-18 months, or longer, to complete.