Application Period is Open
*Must Complete Before Getting Application
About Habitat for HumanityHabitat for Humanity is an international organization dedicated to eliminating poverty housing by building affordable homes for families in need. Using volunteer labor, donated materials, and community funding, Habitat affiliates across the U.S. operate with similar missions but may have different local programs and regulations.
Red River Valley Habitat for Humanity services Grand Forks County and East Grand Forks. They currently build one house per year and hope to expand its impact in the future. |
|
Qualifying Total Household Income
*For households greater than 8 members, please contact the office for income limits.
About Our Homeownership Program
Habitat for Humanity's homeownership program takes up to a year and requires active participation from partner families. Selected families must complete homebuyer education and sweat equity which includes learning about the housing market, mortgage financing, housing discrimination, and assisting with the construction of their home.
Once completed, the home is sold at a discounted price (no more than 30% of the family’s annual income), with a 0% interest mortgage . The mortgage term is 30 years, but early repayment is allowed. Families must live in the home for at least five years to retain the discounted price and are encouraged to stay for 30 years to maximize financial benefits.
Once completed, the home is sold at a discounted price (no more than 30% of the family’s annual income), with a 0% interest mortgage . The mortgage term is 30 years, but early repayment is allowed. Families must live in the home for at least five years to retain the discounted price and are encouraged to stay for 30 years to maximize financial benefits.
Bad living conditions
Housing may be considered unsafe or unhealthy due to disrepair, infestations, mold, leaks, inadequate plumbing, failing electricity, heating or kitchen appliances, or inaccessible spaces for disabled household members. Overcrowding
A household is considered overcrowded if the number of residents exceeds the total number of rooms - including bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen, dining, and living areas. For example, a five-room housing unit with six residents is considered overcrowded. unaffordable
A house is unaffordable if housing expenses (rent/mortgage, insurance, property taxes, and utilities) exceed 30% of household income. |
Paying Back
All adult household members' income - not just the applicants' - is considered when determining eligibility. Housing expenses should not exceed 30% of household income, and total income must remain within 80% of the area median income. |
Sweat equity & willingness to Partner
Partner Families must complete 200 Sweat Equity Hours earned through home construction, volunteering, assisting with office tasks, homeownership education, or participating in marketing and public relations efforts. Families may recruit friends and relatives to contribute hours, with up to 10 past volunteer hours counting toward the total. Willingness to partner is shown through building up savings for closing costs, communication, volunteer participation, and commitment to homebuyer education. |
Timeline to Homeownership
|
Submit application
After submitting a pre-screening questionnaire and receiving an application, complete the application thoroughly and include tax returns, paystubs, and proof of income or property ownership. Habitat staff can assist with the process. Partner Family Selection
Applicants undergo two interviews with Habitat’s Family Services Committee before final approval by the Board of Directors. Partner Family Orientation
Selected families receive program details, sign a partnership agreement, and commit to required sweat equity and public relations involvement. Groundbreaking Ceremony
Families invite loved ones to the site where their home will be built, marking the beginning of the construction process with a dedication and blessing as they dig the first hole in the ground before excavation begins for construction. Construction Begins
Habitat leads the process with assistance from the partner family; customization is limited to paint, flooring, and exterior choices. Homebuyer Education
Construction Finishes
Typically takes up to 12 months. Sign Purchase Agreement
A licensed realtor explains the buying process; financial documents and assistance options are reviewed before signing. Home Dedication Ceremony
Celebration with family, friends, and community partners, including a final blessing. Sale Closes
About 30 days after signing the purchase agreement, final documents are signed, and ownership is transferred. Families can move in, with mortgage payments beginning the following month. |
35 Homes and counting
What Habitat for Humanity Doesn't Do
Red River Valley Habitat for Humanity does not provide rental assistance, mortgage aid for external loans, repairs for owner-occupied or rental units, or temporary housing. However, they can guide applicants to other resources.
For assistance with these needs, contact Red River Valley Community Action.
For assistance with these needs, contact Red River Valley Community Action.
