| Q. |
What is the first step toward becoming a homeowner? |
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First, review our requirements and determine if this program is right for you and your family. Next, sign up for a First Time Homebuyers class, held at the Flathead Valley Community College. Applicants are responsible for the costs of the class, and we cannot accept a family until a Certificate of Achievement is received. Lastly, contact the office to see when the next scheduled Application Information meeting is being held. |
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| Q. |
How are families selected? |
| A. |
After attending the First Time Homebuyers class, download an application from the website or contact the office and set up a time to pick one up. Applications are reviewed for eligibility and a financial review is conducted. If qualified, home visits are performed. After all necessary documentation is received, the Family Selection Committee makes a recommendation. |
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| Q. |
Will credit checks be required? |
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Yes. The office will conduct a credit check when reviewing financial documents. There is not a minimum or maximum credit score to qualify, but the applicant’s amount of debt is measured and calculated. Habitat needs proof that attempts are being made to pay off debt. |
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| Q. |
How long does it take to complete a home? |
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Ideally, the entire process, from Application to Home Dedication, takes one year. Habitat for Humanity is not an emergency housing program. Habitat selects families on a quarterly basis, and construction work is conducted according to the weather and volunteer labor. |
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| Q. |
What is Sweat Equity? |
| A. |
Sweat equity is the time applicant families invest throughout the homeownership process to earn the opportunity to purchase their own home. Following approval by the Selection Committee, future homeowners must complete 500 hours before closing on their home. There are a number of ways to complete the Sweat Equity requirements: Attending financial literacy classes (mandatory); working on the build site; working in the ReStore; or helping out at the office. |
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| Q. |
What kind of homes does Habitat for Humanity build? |
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We build simple, decent and affordable homes. Homes vary in size depending on the family and range between approximately 900-1400 square feet. All homes come with a refrigerator, range, washer and dryer. Design work for the homes is completed by local architecture firms, with the goal of maximizing space and practicality. |
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| Q. |
Do program participants get to choose the location or design? |
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No. The location of our builds takes time to secure and we typically know several years in advance where our projects will take place. Some input is encouraged throughout the build process, but layout and design is donated to Habitat for Humanity by local professionals. |
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| Q. |
Will I be allowed to sell my home? |
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Yes, but with some restrictions. The home will basically have two mortgages: The first being the hard construction costs and the second being the appraised value. The payments on the second mortgage will be forgiven over time, and Habitat for Humanity has claims on a portion of the equity if the home is sold before the mortgage is up. |
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