Becoming a Habitat Owner
Many families apply to local GWHH projects. A Family Selection Committee chooses homeowners based on their level of need, their current living conditions, their willingness to become partners in the program, and their ability to repay the loan. Families are qualified for ownership based on a sliding income scale and various other factors that include "credit worthiness.” Every project follows a nondiscriminatory policy of family selection. Neither race nor religion is a factor in choosing those who receive GWHH houses.

Not only do Habitat homeowners purchase their houses, they are also required to help build them--and the homes of others--as part of their "sweat equity" agreement. Partner families are required to work up to 500 hours on their home or the homes of others. This sweat equity component is very important as it gives families a sense of accomplishment as well as teaching useful skills. After the closing, the family makes interest free monthly mortgage payments with either a 15 or 20 year commitment.

When property for a new project becomes available, an announcement of informational meetings to describe the application process is published in area news media, churches, and libraries.