Our Homeownership Program is Based on Partnerships

 

In Frederick County, one of the most visible ways we impact affordable housing is our homeownership program. We partner with families who cannot qualify for a conventional mortgage and have no other way to own a home on their own.

 

Based on the concept of partnership, Habitat commits to working with the local community to build or renovate decent houses and sell them to qualified families with a low-interest mortgage. In turn, Partner Families must contribute “sweat equity” before purchasing the home, attend homeownership workshops, follow program guidelines, and repay the mortgage.

 

Family Selection and Applicant Eligibility Criteria

 

To qualify to be a Frederick Habitat Homeowner, you must have:

 

1. A housing need. For example, your current living environment is not adequate for the family because it is too crowded, unsafe, unsanitary or not affordable.

2. Lived or worked in Frederick County for a minimum of one year.

3. A total family income between 30% - 60% of Frederick County’s median income.

 

We also require that all adult (18 years and older) members of your household be willing to contribute between 300 and 500 hours of (combined) “sweat equity” before you purchase your home. Family size will determine the total number of hours. Relatives and friends can contribute up to 40 percent of the total hours required.

 

Finally, you will be required to provide a $500.00 down payment, payable at the time you sign your letter of approval.

 

To view the complete eligibility criteria, please click on the PDF icon.