Thursday, February 10, 2011

Creating Homeownership Possibilities

By Kristin Delcamp
On Saturday, February 5th more than 100 families braved the cold, snowy weather to apply for homeownership with Habitat for Humanity. In this time of economic instability it was amazing to host so many low-income families that felt that NOW is the time to pursue their dreams of homeownership. Families listened to a presentation that outlined our program requirements based on their need for housing, ability to make a monthly mortgage payment, and willingness to partner. An astounding 90% of the families in attendance felt they qualified for the program and decided to submit an application!

Habitat’s homeownership program is attractive to families because of the affordable 0% interest mortgage, and the opportunity to become fully prepared for homeownership by partnering with Habitat in a variety of ways. Each partner family applicant invests 250 hours of sweat equity labor to help build their home and the homes of other families.  In addition, they take classes that will prepare them to take care of their house inside and out, establish relationships with their neighbors, and build strong personal finances. Plus they get to join in partnership with thousands of volunteers, churches, community groups, and businesses that encourage their success and make their dreams a possibility.

Our program is usually the only homeownership choice for families that qualify because their incomes are too low to meet the criteria for a traditional bank loan. We are also the only housing organization in Denver that sells homes to families at 35-50% of the Area Median Income.

Given all the love and enthusiasm that goes into our program, Saturday’s snow was no match for the light that Habitat shines on families' dreams.

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