Partner Selection Criteria
The following is a summary of the Partner Selection Criteria. A review of this information will provide the reader with a general understanding of who may be qualified to become a partner. If you have any questions, please call the Habitat office at 231-941-4663.
The four principal criteria are listed below:
NEED FOR ADEQUATE SHELTER
- Current shelter has an inadequate number of bedrooms as determined by the number, ages, and sex of household members.
- Current shelter has problems with the heating, plumbing or electrical systems or problems with the structural integrity of the home.
- The total cost (including utilities) of present housing exceeds 30% of gross income.
- The applicant is unable to obtain a conventional or government-assisted mortgage loan to purchase a home.
ABILITY TO PAY FOR A HABITAT HOME
- The applicant must be able to show a stable income record and demonstrate a history of financial responsibility.
- The applicant must have the financial ability to meet their total debt obligations. Total of all monthly debt payments, including approximately $400 - $500 per month to Habitat for mortgage payments, taxes and insurance, should not exceed 40% of gross income.
- The applicant must have a satisfactory credit history and references.
WILLINGNESS TO PARTNER WITH HABITAT
- The applicant must agree to maintain their Habitat homes upon occupancy.
- Applicants are expected to assist in the construction of their home and the homes of others. Applicants shall agree to commit a minimum of 550 hours (two-adult family) or 275 hours (single-adult family) sweat equity.
RESIDENCY
- Applicants must be residents of the Grand Traverse Region (Leelanau, Benzie, Grand Traverse or Kalkaska counties) for at least one year.