The Process - Fort Hood Area Habitat for Humanity

Who can apply for a Habitat House?

Our families are low-income families who cannot qualify for home financing from banks and other lending institutions. Anyone may apply regardless of age, race, national origin, religion, sex, handicap, or familial status

Specific requirements for potential homeowners

Ability To Repay

All Habitat Homeowners must have the ability to repay a low monthly mortgage payment. Your total family income must meet the minimum requirements and not exceed the maximum income limit depending on the number of individuals that will live in the Habitat home. Income limits are set in accordance with the HUD Median Income Guidelines for the local area. Monthly payments are based on a 20 year interest free mortgage. Payments include insurance and property taxes. Homeowners are responsible for all utility bills and for the upkeep of their individual properties.

Need For Housing

Your "need" for Habitat housing will be based on the living conditions where you currently live and whether the conditions are inadequate. Inadequate is a measure of your current living conditions and many factors are taken into account, such as overcrowding of bedrooms, structural problems, inadequate utilities, unsafe or unsanitary conditions are some areas considered in determining your "need" for a home. A home visit will be made to evaluate such conditions.

Willingness To "Partner" And "Sweat Equity"

Each family must perform a certain number (300 minimum) of "Sweat Equity" hours. The number of hours is 300 hours plus 50 hours for each family member 16 year old or over. The family must complete their "Sweat Equity" hours before work will begin on their home. The next family to get their "Sweat Equity" hours done goes next on the waiting list for a home. Homeowners must attend budgeting, new homeowner/maintenance and other classes, attend Habitat Homeowner Meetings, and allow media publicity of you and your families participation in the program to promote community awareness and support of the Habitat Program.

How do I apply for a Habitat House?

Applications are only accepted following the attendance of the Homeowner Orientation. Please contact our main office for future Homeowner Orientation scheduling.

What information do I bring to the orientation?

1. Proof of Income - 3 months for all adult family members of the household (Pay Stubs, TANF, Housing Assistance, Social Security, Alimony, Child Support, SSI, Disability, etc)

2. Birthdates of all dependents who will live in the Habitat House

3. Proof of permanent residency for applicants and co-applicant if not born in the United States

4. Be prepared to explain any problems with your current living situation

If you meet the requirements you will be given a full application at the orientation. You may request an appointment with a Habitat representative for help in completing the application, if necessary.

Still Have Questions?

Visit our FAQ page for answers to more Frequently Asked Questions, or contact us at info@forthoodareahabitat.org using the email contact form located on the same page.