Provides an affordable homeownership program that is open to applicants once a year, for a limited time. The selection process can become competitive if many qualified applicants apply. Selection is based on need, ability to pay, meeting eligibility criteria and willingness to partner. Selected applicants partner with Habitat to build and purchase a home. The timeline for achieving homeownership is generally 16-24 months from the time of application submission. Homes are built with a combination of skilled and unskilled labor. Homebuyer partners work alongside volunteers to build their home. Habitat is the builder, the seller, and the lender in the real estate transaction, providing affordable financing that does not exceed 30% of the homebuyer's gross income. Homebuyer partners must complete 300 hours of sweat equity, which includes construction on Habitat homes and participation in homebuyer education classes. The home location, design and style is determined by Habitat, and the homebuyer's options are limited. Habitat is not a custom builder. Habitat builds all year around, in all kinds of weather. Income guidelines and selection criteria are available on the Habitat website. 2024 applications will be open from October 1 - 31, 2024. Visit website for details. ​Application forms are not available until the application round opens.