Habitat of Greater Chattanooga is opening the application process to select future homeowners on Monday. The faith-based nonprofit housing organization has been making a difference in the lives of Chattanoogans since opening its doors in 1986. It is guided by the vision of building strength, stability and self-reliance in partnership with families in need of a decent and affordable home.
When the application process opens, successful future homeowners must meet three program requirements. First, they must show a need for housing by living in low-income/ high housing costs; unsafe dwelling; overcrowded conditions; homelessness; unsafe surroundings; or that the home cannot accommodate the needs of a disabled household member.
Secondly, applicants must have the ability to pay. They must have the ability to pay a 30-year, 0% interest rate mortgage. The house payment includes principle, property taxes and homeowner’s insurance. Applicants must meet low-income guidelines based on family size.
Finally, applicants must be willing to participate in Habitat’s “Sweat Equity” program. Each future homeowner must complete 15 hours per month toward the minimum 300 required hours of volunteer work before moving into their new home. Sweat equity is hands-on involvement of future homeowners in the construction of their homes, as well as in other Habitat and community activities. Families also attend education classes to complete their sweat equity hours.
Habitat President and CEO Jens Christensen said, “It’s always very humbling to open the application process. We see individuals who have been struggling to meet very basic human needs. When they are selected, we know that the trajectory of their family’s future is about to be forever changed. As homeowners, they will begin to build generational wealth. With the help of our future homeowners and volunteers from across the community, we are making real change across Chattanooga. For us, there’s simply no higher calling.”
Those interested in becoming future homeowners are encouraged to apply online when Habitat’s application portal opens on Monday, July 11. The application process will be open until Aug. 31.