Frequently Asked Questions

Are Durham Habitat houses free?
No. Habitat homeowners purchase their homes from Durham Habitat through a low interest mortgage.

Where is your office located?
As of November 1, 2023 our office is located at 1823 Chapel Hill Rd. Durham, NC 27707.

Is there a down payment required?
A down payment may be required depending on the applicant’s financial situation. Habitat partner families must also give at least 250 hours of sweat equity toward the construction of their home.

How much is the monthly mortgage payment?
The monthly mortgage payment will be based on the appraised value of the home and your income. The average mortgage payment including taxes and insurance is between $750-850 per month. 

Do you have a waiting list?
At this time we are not accepting or processing applications. To join our mailing list, please call our office at 919-682-0516.

How long does the process take?
The application process can take 3-6 months, but it can take up to a year or longer from first application to the close on your home.

Can I reapply if I am denied?
Absolutely. If you are denied for our programs, you will receive a letter of explanation with the reason(s) for denial within 30 days of the date of the application. If you want to appeal the denial, you must submit a written request within 30 days of the date of our letter to you. You will need to acknowledge the reason for the denial and the information that you are submitting to support your request for review. Otherwise, we welcome you to reapply by submitting another application, after 60 days. 

Do I have to be employed?
No, but you must have a steady income and meet the household income minimum of $2,950.00 per month. Qualifying income includes but is not limited to child support, alimony, SSA, SSI, retirement and income from your employment.

People in Household2023 Monthly Income
1$2,950.00
2$3,370.83
3$3,791.66
4$4,212.50
5$4,550.00

Can a single person apply?
Yes, you do not have to have children to qualify. You may also be married.

Can I qualify if I have had a foreclosure?
Yes and No. Each application and credit file is reviewed individually. A post-foreclosure waiting period may be required.

Where do you build?
We build throughout the city of Durham and greater Durham County where building sites are made available to us.

Can I choose where I want my house to be built?
Yes and No. Once you are approved, we will offer you a selection of currently available Habitat-owned building lots. You will not have the option of searching for a site on your own.

What size house can I get?
Your home size will be based on the current needs of your family and what you can afford.

Can anyone help me with my sweat equity?
Yes, an approved family has to commit to working a minimum of 250 hours toward the purchase of its new home. Of those hours, 75 may be given by anyone that will not be living in the home.

Can I use my section 8 voucher?
Yes. A homebuyer receiving the Housing Choice Voucher will have the option of using it toward his/her mortgage payments. However, it is the responsibility of the homebuyer to work with Durham Housing Authority to ensure your continued eligibility. Please note that your voucher assistance is not guaranteed to supplement your mortgage payments. Should your voucher cease at any time, you are responsible for the full payment.

Can I apply if I own a business?
Yes. Your complete income tax records for the previous two years will be evaluated closely to ensure that you meet the income minimum and do not exceed the maximum income for your family size.

If I already own my home and it need repairs, can Habitat fix it up?
Yes. We have a repairs program that may assist you with urgent repairs to your home. Priority is given to senior citizens and disabled individuals with low income. However, any Durham County resident can apply. You must meet our qualifications. For more information on how to qualify and apply for the Repair Program, please click here

Has Habitat ever foreclosed on a house?
Yes, unfortunately, we have. You will purchase your home from us, and we expect you to make timely monthly mortgage payments. If you do not make your payments for three consecutive months or more, Habitat may begin foreclosure. Your payments are important because they help fund homes for future families.

Please contact our office at (919)-682-0516 with any questions.