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HABITAT HOME LOAN PROGRAM

We believe that home is for everyone. Buying an affordable home provides a strong foundation and opportunity on which to build a better life. Please review the program requirements in the "do you qualify?" section below.

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STEP #1: The Application

Since Habitat is a lender, we are required to follow banking laws so certain information such as income, credit history, and debt need to be collected. Applicants are required to fill out a loan application completely and provide supporting documents by the application deadline. The application period is December 1 through February 28 every year for Grand Island locations. Applicants are required to attend an application class explaining the loan program before receiving an application. 

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STEP #2: The Selection

Once the application deadline has passed, all applications are processed, and the selection process begins. The selection committee meets to review information on the applicants, ranks them based on ability to pay, willingness to partner, and need for improved housing. We select 3 homebuyers per year.

 

STEP #3: The Construction

Future homebuyers are required to put in 500 hours of "sweat equity" (22 of the hours being homeowner education classes,) before they are able to purchase their home.

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STEP #4: The Dedication

The dedication ceremony is a chance for the organization to recognize the volunteers and homebuyer for all their hard work. The homeowner receives the keys to their new home and gets to unlock their front door for the very first time. 

need
Applicants must have lived in the area a year or more before the application deadline, and must earn between 30-80% of the median income.

ability to pay

Able to pay an affordable no-interest mortgage.

willing to partner

Complete 500 hours of sweat equity and attend 21 homeownership and personal finance classes.

do you qualify?

Selection Criteria

1. Housing Need. Current housing is inadequate, substandard, or not affordable.

 

2. Ability to Pay.

  • Applicant(s) must have a reliable, steady and verifiable source of income.

  • Credit history shows ability to repay the loan and an acceptable debt-to-income ratio.

  • Applicant(s) income is between 30% to 80% of the HUD area median income.

  • U.S. Citizenship or permanent resident status is valid.

  • Applicant(s) must have lived in our service area for at least the past 12 months.

 

3. Willingness to Partner. Households will partner with Grand Island Area Habitat for Humanity in several important ways.

  • Sweat Equity – 500 hours. Sweat Equity hours can be earned on construction sites or our Habitat Administrative office.

  • Applicant(s) must complete a series of homeowner education classes.

  • Applicant(s) must provide all necessary documents during the application process.

  • Applicant(s) must be willing to purchase a Grand Island Area Habitat for Humanity house and make regular monthly mortgage payments for a 20-30 year mortgage at 0% interest.

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