PHASE ONE

Each applicant must meet the following qualifications to be placed on the notification list.

Need

You will be considered for a Habitat House if your present housing is inadequate, and you are unable to obtain housing through other conventional means.

Ability to Pay

Since you will be buying your house from Habitat through a 25-year, 0% interest loan, you must demonstrate you ability to afford the monthly payment. This payment will include the mortgage payment, real estate taxes and hazard insurance. You must have an income that is equivalent to 30-60% of the median income in Lamoille County. See the Median Income Chart We will help you to determine if this payment will jeopardize your ability to meet all other family financial obligations and expenses.

Willingness to participate as a Partner with Habitat

When selected, you become a Partner Family in the Habitat movement. A Partner Family is required to complete a minimum number of hours of work with Habitat before moving into the house and becoming a Habitat homeowner. This is often referred to as Habitat’s “sweat equity” policy and may include clearing the lot, painting, helping with construction, providing food for volunteers or working with office staff and volunteers. You will be responsible for the maintenance and repair of your house and property from the time you move into your house. After moving into the house Lamoille County Habitat for Humanity will continue to maintain an ongoing relationship with you.

PHASE TWO

Once the applicant returns the completed applications including all necessary documentation, you file will be processed. The process has several areas of focus:

1. Credit history check
2. Employment or other income check
3. Landlord references and utility account history
4. Income guideline check
5. Other sources of income
6. Home visit