own a Habitat home

Chatham Habitat builds houses along with families who demonstrate a need for affordable housing, the ability to pay, and a willingness to partner.

Applicants provide employer references and proof that they have lived in Chatham County for at least a year. They also agree to background checks.

Once an application is approved, a family invests 350 hours of time and labor as a down-payment on their home, demonstrating their commitment and their ability to assume responsibility. This model helps keep the upfront costs and monthly payments low.

Families also agree to attend classes designed to prepare them for homeownership.

When the house is completed and the criteria are met, the family takes ownership and begins making full and timely payments on their 20 year, interest-free mortgage. These payments are then used to fund homes for other families in need.

Apply for a Home

Chatham Habitat considers applicants without regard to their race, religion, gender, handicap, familial status or national origin.

Selection is based on the following criteria:

Need for adequate housing

• Lack of decent and safe living conditions
• Overcrowded housing conditions
• Unsafe neighborhood
• Excessive home rental expense. A family should not have to spend more than 35% of its income for housing, not including utilities
• An income too low to secure conventional financing from a traditional lending institution

Ability to pay

The gross household income must be between 25 and 60% of the median income for Chatham County for the past year. The median income figure varies depending on the size of the family, not including utilities. The current median income for Chatham County is $66,500.

• Monthly long-term debt payments, including estimated mortgage payment, should be less than 41% of your family’s income.
• You have an acceptable credit history and a good record of paying rent and utilities.
• You are willing to combine delinquent accounts, if needed, into a repayment agreement and make timely payments for six months to demonstrate your fiscal responsibility.
• You can afford a mortgage payment of $460 to $590 per month.
• You are willing to save $900 to $1,000 in a Habitat escrow account to go toward closing costs.

Willingness to partner

• You are willing to work cooperatively with the sponsoring organization, other donors, and volunteers.
• Your family is willing to contribute 350 hours of sweat equity toward the building of your Habitat home.  A portion of these hours must be performed by the head(s) of household. Family and friends can chip in on the rest.
• You are willing to participate in classes that will help prepare you for homeownership and for being part of a community.
• You are committed to making timely house payments and to maintaining your home.
• You are committed to your new community and will work to keep it safe.