Have questions about the process to become a Habitat Homebuyer? We’ve got answers!
What is the first step toward purchasing a Habitat home?
First, review our program requirements. If you believe the Habitat program may be a good fit for you, reach out to our Homeownership Coordinator to receive notifications about the next application period. If applications are currently open, click here to download an application packet.
We share updates about application cycles on our website, mailing list, and social media channels.
Homeownership Coordinator Contact Information:
Phone: 845-340-0907 x 105
Email: homeownership@ulsterhabitat.org
Are there income requirements?
Gross household income must be between 50-70% of the Area Median Income. Area Median Income guidelines are set by HUD and are based on household size (the number of people you plan to have living with you). The monthly household income must be enough to support an estimated monthly mortgage payment. You will be required to provide proof of steady income. Guidelines are subject to change.
How are applicants selected?
Once you submit your application along with the required supporting documents, Habitat will conduct an internal review to ensure all materials are included. If your application is complete, we will assess preliminary criteria such as income, reasonable debt, and Area Median Income (AMI). Applicants who meet these initial qualifications will then be asked to obtain a pre-qualification letter from a reputable lender for an affordable mortgage.
Being accepted into the Habitat program means you have met our selection criteria and have been pre-qualified for a home loan. From this point, we will guide you through securing an affordable mortgage while you also work toward fulfilling your Habitat partnership commitments.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of the U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the nation. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.
Will credit checks or background checks be conducted?
Habitat conducts sex offender and criminal background checks on qualified applicants. A criminal history does not automatically disqualify an applicant.
Habitat does not conduct credit checks. However, if you meet the preliminary criteria, you will need to contact a reputable lender for pre-qualification, and the financial institution will perform the credit check.
As part of our assessment process, Habitat will verify employment and gather housing and banking references to help determine eligibility.
How long will it take to purchase my Habitat home?
Homebuyers are in the program until their house is built and their partnership hours are complete; generally, this takes 8-12 months. The construction process is complex with many variables depending on funding sources, the construction schedule and building requirements. This complexity makes it difficult to predict the length of time from acceptance into the program to the date of purchase. We will keep you updated throughout the construction process.
What are partnership hours?
Partnership is a fundamental principle of Habitat for Humanity’s approach. It involves the active, hands-on participation of future homeowners in the construction of their homes, attendance at Homebuyer Education classes, and engagement in various Habitat activities. Our partnership policy aims to achieve three key objectives: 1) fostering meaningful interactions between future homeowners, Habitat staff, volunteers, and community members; 2) instilling pride in homeownership; and 3) equipping individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful homeownership.
To complete the partnership process, all Habitat homebuyers must fulfill between 200 hours (for a single adult applicant) and 400 hours (for two adult applicants) prior to closing on their homes. These hours can be completed by family members planning to live in the Habitat home, as well as by friends and relatives.
We will work with homebuyers to accommodate disability or impairment while completing hours.
What kind of houses does Habitat build?
Habitat does not build custom homes. You will have the opportunity to purchase a home that is appropriate for the size and composition of your household. To keep the homes affordable, Habitat cannot accept custom design requests.
Beyond constructing homes, Habitat is dedicated to fostering strong communities. Our building efforts are concentrated in designated focus neighborhoods to create a greater impact.
How much will the house cost?
Habitat is committed to keeping housing payments affordable for our qualified homebuyers. Your monthly housing payment, which includes your mortgage payment, homeowners’ insurance and property taxes, is designed to be no more than 33% of your gross monthly household income.
We will assist Habitat homebuyers in accessing funds (grants and subsidies) to help lower their out-of-pocket costs for their down payments and closing costs.
Can Habitat homeowners sell their homes?
Yes! While all Habitat homes are required through deed restrictions to be owner-occupied, a homeowner can sell their home at any point. However, each house and homeowner will have a different mix of grants and subsidies used to help them build and purchase their home. These funding sources may have resale requirements. As part of our support, we help homeowners navigate the different layers of restrictions on their property.