How to Apply

Applying to become a Habitat Homebuyer is a several step process that takes place year-round. First, homeowners are screened to make sure they meet our program’s four criteria:

1. Family Income of 25% - 50 % of Area Median Income for family size

 

2. Ability to make monthly payments through stable, long-term income source
Applicants will be purchasing the home through a zero-interest mortgage and must be able to make monthly payments for 20 – 25 years. Therefore, income must come from employment, disability, or another long-term income source.

3. Need for better housing
Applicants who show greatest need for better housing will be selected. Factors include no permanent residence of their own, overcrowding, unhealthy conditions, high housing cost to income ratio, and inability to get traditional financing. Applicants can not have owned a home in the last three years.

4. Ability and willingness to partner with Habitat.
Homebuyers will perform 400 hours of sweat equity as part of their down payment for the home. This includes completion of homeownership counseling and budgeting classes as well as working side by side with volunteers to build their home and others.

If you think you qualify to apply, download our pre-qualification brochure. Send in a completed brochure to 280 Ottawa Street, Muskegon, MI 49442. Once it is reviewed and approved for application, you will be sent a detailed application packet that includes requests for credit and personal references as well as family records. Your completed application will be reviewed with you at an in-take appointment. Approved applicants will then have two separate interviews with one taking place in your current home.

Final recommendations are made by a volunteer committee to the MCHFH Board of Directors. The Board makes final approval of the number of families needed for to purchase the number of homes planned for construction that year. Selected families receive orientation and education throughout the construction of their homes as they complete sweat equity and closing requirements. After purchase of their homes, families are encouraged to stay involved in the Habitat program to help others reach their dream of homeownership.

Families not selected are referred to other area resources and educated on how to successfully apply in the future. Applicants who work on credit and debt issues and increase income to fit guidelines are encouraged to apply again.

For information on Habitat’s application process, contact our office at 231-727-6020.