The process of applying for a Habitat home begins with attending an orientation to learn whether you are eligible for the program. Austin Habitat for Humanity is looking for qualified, low-income families who are in need of decent, affordable homes.  You must attend an applicant information orientation to pick up an application. English speaking new applicant Orientations are full for the year. Please contact us 12/15/10 to register for the a New Applicant Orientation in 2011.

Thank you. If you have additional questions about our program, please contact Jo Ropiak [ email ].

Family Selection Criteria:
You must meet all criteria to qualify

Residency
Home Owners must be U.S. citizens or legal residents

1. Need for Adequate Housing
You may qualify if you are:
-Currently living in housing which is overcrowded or in bad condition
-Currently paying more than 30 percent of income for housing and utilities
-Living in subsidized housing (including Section 8 & Housing Authority)
-Currently living in a situation that is unstable

2. Ability to Pay
You may qualify if you have:
-Stable income between $12,825- $54,300 a year (Income depends on family size, see below for guidelines)
-Recent history of accepting responsibility for debt

3. Willingness to Partner
You may qualify if you are willing to:
-Provide Austin Habitat for Humanity with a minimal down payment
-Be honest and cooperative with Austin Habitat for Humanity
-Fulfill a minimum of 400 "sweat equity" hours (total number depends on family size)
-Attend 24 required HomeBuyer education classes
-Promptly make house payments
-Maintain and repair the house after moving in

Family Requirements:

Sweat Equity
Sweat equity is an exciting learning experience in which you work with your family, neighbors and friends to build other peoples' homes as well as your own. Working alongside volunteers and future neighbors to build your home and community is one of the most unique and rewarding aspects of Habitat for Humanity.
Every family is required to perform a minimum of 400 hours of volunteer work known as "sweat equity" within the Habitat organization before moving into their home.  HomeBuyers must also attend 24 HomeBuyer Education Classes.

Who can contribute to "sweat equity" hours?
All family members over 14 years of age who will live in the home may contribute some type of sweat equity.
Extended family and friends and may contribute up to 40 percent of the hours.

Ways to earn sweat equity hours:
-Construction on your own house and on other AHFH houses
-Office work
-Work at the Austin Habitat for Humanity ReStore

The Home Loan:
-Houses are purchased with a loan from Austin Habitat
-The mortgage length varies between 15-35 years with 0% interest
-House payments currently average around $500 depending on house size (this average amount includes principal payment, taxes & insurance)

Upcoming Orientations:
English speaking new applicant Orientations are full for the year. Please contact us 3/15/10 to register for the first New Applicant Orientation of April.