Apply for affordable homeownership today!
Accepting applications February 1st – April 1st 2024. See below for application instructions and eligibility criteria.
Our application period is currently closed.
Path to Homeownership
Check out other housing programs in the meantime.
Affordable homeownership with Habitat
With a little help, we all have the potential to stand on our own.
Habitat for Humanity of Tompkins and Cortland Counties provides an affordable homeownership opportunity by offering a “hand up, not a hand out.” Habitat homebuyers help build or fix up their house (we call this “Sweat Equity”) and take out an affordable mortgage.
APPLICATION STEPS :
- Read over the eligibility guidelines below! If you think you may meet the eligibility requirements, proceed to step 2!
- Schedule an individual intake call/meeting by calling or texting 607-844-3529 or emailing liz@tchabitat.com. You will get many important details about the program and our upcoming housing options. If it sounds like the program for you – proceed to step 3!
- Complete the Habitat Application for Homeownership, return it by (postmarked no later than) APRIL 1, 2024.
- Complete a mortgage pre-qualification and submit your pre-qualification letter to Habitat (by April 15, 2024).
- Two members of our Family Services Committee will meet with you to discuss your current housing situation and your Sweat Equity plan.
- Board of Directors votes on a selection.
Eligibility
We evaluate applications based on NEED, ABILITY TO PAY, and WILLINGNESS TO PARTNER.
A successful Habitat homebuyer:
- Has a steady income. Total gross household annual income should be at minimum $40,000 and the current maximum amounts are listed below by household size. (NOTE: if you receive Section 8 assistance, you may be able to use this toward your mortgage!)
- Is a good credit risk, and able to qualify for an affordable home loan. Worried about your credit? We can help you get started on your path to home purchase.
- Is in need of decent housing.
- Is willing and able to invest at least 350 hours of Sweat Equity. Habitat homebuyers help build their homes, as well as take classes and do other work to prepare to be a homeowner.
- Has not owned a home in the last three years.
Maximum Gross Household Income Guidelines for Applicants for 2023-24
1 person | 2 person | 3 person | 4 person | 5 person | 6 person | 7 person | 8 person |
$44,580 | $50,940 | $57,300 | $63,660 | $68,760 | $73,860 | $78,960 | $84,060 |
Income guidelines for applicants living in Tompkins County for 2023-24
Cortland County maximum gross household income
Income guidelines for applicants living in Cortland County for 2023-24
1 person | 2 person | 3 person | 4 person | 5 person | 6 person | 7 person | 8 person |
$34,740 | $39,660 | $44,640 | $49,560 | $53,580 | $57,540 | $61,500 | $65,460 |
We do not discriminate based on age, race, color, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, handicap, familial status, citizenship or immigration status.
How to apply
If you feel you meet the guidelines above, you may qualify. Please call 607-844-3529 or e-mail to discuss. We want to help.
Contact us if you have additional questions.
Read Our Homeowner’s Stories
Each Habitat house becomes someone’s home. The walls are so much more than just a structure and it represents a huge shift in our homeowners lives. Read their inspiring stories and learn about the impact that our work makes!