Frequently Asked Questions
About Applying for a Home

What is involved in the application process?

How long does the application process usually take?

How long does it take for an approved applicant to move into a Habitat home?

What kind of homes does Habitat for Humanity build?

Are there any limitations or restrictions on Habitat homeowners after they move into their homes?






Q: What is involved in the application process?

A: The first step is getting in the application. After the initial application is taken, time is taken to verify an applicant’s income stability, payment history and credit status, and at that point applications are brought to our Family Selection Committee, which reviews applications four times a year. The Committee then conducts home visits with each applicant; two committee members travel to an applicant’s house to talk with the applicant and to see what kind of need the applicant has for a new home. After all of the home visits are conducted for that quarter, the Committee recommends to the Board of Directors those applications that they feel are most eligible and qualified for a Habitat home. The Board then makes the final decision as to which applicants become Partner Families.





Q: How long does the application process usually take?

A: Because we have to verify the eligibility of an applicant, the procedure can take some time. Generally we tell applicants that the process can take anywhere between three and six months; however, an applicant can speed up the process by providing all needed documentation and information at the time of the application.

Q: How long does it take for an approved applicant to move into a Habitat home?

A: The time it takes for an approved Partner Family to move into their new home depends on many factors; building a new home from the ground up is an intricate process. Timing generally depends on our construction schedule, weather, volunteer availability and on sub-contractors. We usually tell families that their new home should be complete within twelve to eighteen months after Board approval.

Q: What kind of homes does Habitat for Humanity build?

A: Our goal at Habitat is to provide a decent, safe and affordable new home to families in need. Depending on the size and make-up of a family, we build three and four bedroom homes; the three bedrooms containing one full bath and the four bedrooms a bath and a half. Chatham Habitat homes are generally between 1,000 and 1,300 square feet in size, depending on the number of bedrooms. We also work to the best of our ability with Partner Families to provide them with different options for their home; typically homeowners have choices when it comes to floor plan, siding material and color, shingles, flooring material and color, and paint. Chatham Habitat homes are also guaranteed for a full year after move-in.





Q: Are there any limitations or restrictions on Habitat homeowners after they move into their homes?

A: In general, there are no unusual or odd restrictions placed on Habitat homeowners after they have moved into their home. Currently, Chatham Habitat and the homeowners in the Westmont Subdivision in Siler City are in the process of putting into place the first Homeowner’s Association in a Chatham Habitat neighborhood. Although there are some rules and regulations related to the Association, it is nothing out of the ordinary from Homeowner’s Associations in place in other conventional neigborhoods.