Home Ownership - Who Qualifies?

Four fundamental criteria are used to determine who is selected to be a Habitat partner. 

Need for Shelter - The applicant's current shelter is inadequate because it is either structurally unsound, overcrowded, has unsafe, unsanitary or unhealthy conditions, or the resident is paying more than 50% of household income for housing.

Willingness to Partner - The applicant agrees to completes 250 hours of sweat equity per adult in the family and participates in the partnership program that may include financial counseling and household management education.

Ability to Pay a Mortgage - The applicant's household income is between 30% and 60% of area’s median income based on family size( Orange Co. $26,200- $44,760 Washington Co. $26,200- $48,180).  For a 20-30 year mortgage, a homeowner’s monthly housing expenses may be approximately $500 to $800 a month (includes mortgage payment, home insurance, and property taxes). 

Residency – Each affiliate has a residency requirement.  A partner family would typically live and/or work in the county of Orange or Washington.

Home Ownership - the selection process- CLOSED

The Homeowner Selection Committee advertises for a homeowner partner and accepts applications.  

The Committee reviews all completed applications and then the Homeowner Selection Committee:

1. Requests more information if it is needed
2. Reviews the tax return for the previous year and other material provided by the applicant to verify information on the application.
3. Conducts a home visit at family's current residence.
4. Makes a recommendation to the Board of Directors.

If you meet these criteria and wish to pursue home ownership through Habitat, contact the affiliate serving the area in which you live.  

Our Federal Form 990 is available for public inspection by writing to:  Treasurer, Central Vermont HFH, P.O. Box 837, Montpelier, Vermont  05601.