5 Things About Habitat
September 27, 2024
- Does Habitat for Humanity of Durham give away homes?
No, Durham Habitat does not give away homes. It is a common misconception that our homes are free. Our homebuyers pay a monthly mortgage as they would with any other home purchase. They also must meet stable income requirements of at least 50% of Durham’s median income. While we do not give away homes, our goal is to keep them as affordable as possible. We do so by offering a no cash down payment, and in exchange homebuyer families contribute 250 hours of sweat equity. We offer 0% interest mortgages and build energy efficient homes that help keep costs down.
- Who can purchase a Durham Habitat home?
To purchase a Durham Habitat home, buyers must live or work in Durham for at least 6 months, as well as meet the income requirements of at least 50% of Durham’s AMI. Homebuyers typically live in housing that may be unsafe, crowded, or unaffordable. Our homeowners must be willing to partner with Durham Habitat to build not only their own home, but other Habitat homes as well. Durham Habitat is not a homelessness service, but aims to aid families who are unable to afford the traditional housing market.
- Are Durham Habitat homes good quality?
Yes! We build high-quality, energy efficient homes that are well above requirements to help keep our homes affordable. We seal our crawl spaces, fire foam in our attics, and caulk all of the penetrations in the home. In fact, our homes can be heated and cooled for just a dollar a day. Our homes are also equipped with high quality appliances, plumbing, electrical, and finishes. Homeowners have the opportunity to choose many of the final details, such as paint color. For Durham Habitat, ‘home’ means more than just a roof over your head.
- Are there benefits aside from homeownership?
Yes! Homeownership has many important benefits aside from just the home itself. Affordable housing can create greater economic stability, access to quality education, increased civic and social engagement, better health, and a reduced environmental footprint. Homeownership also promotes wealth building by acting as a forced savings mechanism and through home value appreciation. Our homebuyers receive extensive education about finances, estate planning, and all that goes into being a homeowner so they are set up for success.
- How can I be considered for a Durham Habitat home?
Applications open as program capacity allows. Keep an eye on our website and social media to be in the know when applications open. To be considered, read all our qualifications carefully. If you meet all the minimum requirements, feel free to apply! We no longer have a waitlist, and applicants are accepted on a rolling basis.