Applications are being accepted now until APRIL 30, 2010 AT 5:00pm. You may download an application or call our office at (734)243-2048 if you have questions.

Frequently Asked Questions can be consulted before applying.

We are pledged to the letter and spirit of 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.

How Habitat chooses families for homeownership:

1. Need
   • You will be considered for Habitat homeownership if where you live now is not adequate or if you cannot obtain housing by other means.
     Inadequate housing may include problems with: too small for your family size, deficient heating, roof, water, or electrical; other safety issues or high monthly costs in maintaining your family in this housing, or you are living with other family members in a "doubled up" situation.
   • Your current debt (what money you owe to others) and what you currently spend on your housing is considered.  Your financial situation must be honestly and fully discussed with the Habitat interviewer.
   • Your total annual family income should be between these amounts:

   Year 2009-2010 Guidelines

   Family Size	Lower	Upper
   Two	$14,083	$33,800
   Three	$19,000	$38,000
   Four	$21,100	$42,200
   Five	$22,800	$45,600
   Six	$24,500	$49,000
   Seven	$26,150	$52,300
   Eight	$27,850	$55,700

   *Gross means before deductions.
   

2. Ability to Pay
   Since you will actually buy your home from Habitat, you must show your ability to pay the monthly mortgage payment.  
   This payment will include the principal payment and the payment (called an escrow) for real estate taxes and homeowner's insurance. We will determine if that payment will hurt your ability to meet your other family expenses.    

   Habitat looks at all sources of income as well as how long you have had this income (for example, how long you have been at a job or received child support).  Habitat also obtains a credit report on applicants, although we do not expect perfect credit.

   Are you concerned about your credit or know that you have credit problems?  We suggest you contact the non-profit credit counseling agency Greenpath in downtown Monroe, at 734-457-0370, and make an appointment for an analysis even before you apply. Greenpath offers free or very low cost credit counseling that has been effective for our homeowners.

   Habitat accepts applications from Section 8 participants.

   A Habitat mortgage is written for 15-30 years at 0% interest.
   

3. Willingness to Partner with Habitat.
   • When selected, you become a partner with Habitat.  This means you must complete 250 hours per adult of volunteer work, called sweat equity, with Habitat, which must be completed before becoming a homeowner.
     Sweat equity may include:  clearing the lot, painting, helping with construction, volunteering at Habitat functions, learning how to budget your finances, and learning construction and maintenance techniques for your new home.  Classes will be scheduled that you will be required to attend.
   • You will make a $1000 down payment before you move into your home. (The down payment is collected over time.)
   • You will be responsible for maintenance and repairs of your house from the time you move in and sign the mortgage.
   • You must be willing to accept assistance from a Habitat volunteer partner through the preparation and building process.
4. You must have been a resident of Monroe County for the 12 month period before you apply.