Programs
Homeownership
We offer a supportive pathway to homeownership, emphasizing empowerment over handouts. Our mission is to assist hardworking families in realizing their dream of owning a home by providing guidance and resources.
We believe in fostering independence and responsibility, ensuring that families understand the commitment and effort required to achieve their goal.
How we create affordable housing
- Leveraging Building Supply Donations
- Utilizing Volunteer Labor When Possible
- Negotiating discounted rates with construction vendors, including electricians and plumbers
- Fundraising Year-Round to Fund Homes
By combining these strategies, we pave the path to a brighter future for families within our community.
Sign up for our next available homeownership
informational session
Housatonic Habitat for Humanity complies with the Fair Housing Act and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or familial status. We are committed to providing equal housing opportunities to all applicants.
Our Homeownership Program Provides
Subsidized Mortgage: Providing lower monthly payments.
Homebuyer Assistance: We are with you every step of the way. Housatonic Habitat for Humanity representatives and financial advisors.
Qualifications Required
Prospective Homeowners Eligibility Requirements:
- Attend an in-person informational session – learn program requirements and receive an application.
- Complete and submit the application by the deadline.
- Must be a 1st time Homebuyer.
- Must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
- Must live or work in one of the towns we service.
- Need – Living in overcrowded, unsafe or unaffordable housing, or spending more that 30% of income on rent.
- Ability to pay – Total household income within HUD income guidelines according to family size. Two years of steady income with a minimum credit score of 620. No judgements, foreclosures or recent bankruptcies.
Total Gross income falls within the range
of your household size:
| Family Size | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $56,500 | $89,000 |
| 3 | $63,500 | $100,000 |
| 4 | $70,500 | $111,000 |
| 5 | $76,000 | $120,000 |
| 6 | $81,500 | $129,000 |
Sign up for our next available homeownership informational session
Housatonic Habitat for Humanity complies with the Fair Housing Act and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or familial status. We are committed to providing equal housing opportunities to all applicants.
What we expect from homeowners
We expect homeowners to contribute ‘Sweat Equity’ for community involvement and empowerment. Alongside this, completing financial literacy workshops that empower informed financial decisions and long-term stability.
- Dedicate a total of 250 hours
- Participate in construction activities alongside volunteers
- Engage in 50 hours of financial education aimed at successful homeownership
The added value of our homeownership program
- Stability for your family, a home where your family can thrive and strengthen connections.
- Enhanced well-being through improved health, physical safety, and a sense of security.
- Becoming an integral part of a community, where you establish roots and experience a sense of belonging.
- We build a sustainable supply of affordable housing, enriching our community.
The Proven Impact of Homeownership
- Children of homeowners are 25% more likely to graduate high school and 116% more likely to graduate college, improving their lifetime earning potential.
- Homeowners are 28% less likely to experience food insecurity, providing better health outcomes for their families.
- Owning a home builds wealth—on average, homeowners have 40 times the net worth of renters, offering long-term financial security.
- Homeownership strengthens communities—homeowners are more likely to vote, volunteer, and engage civically, fostering stronger local economies.