Questions and Answers

Habitat for Humanity gives houses to poor people?
Houses are not given to anyone. Habitat for Humanity sells the houses to homeowner partners with no-profit, no-interest loans.

Habitat builds houses only for minorities?
Habitat doesn't build houses for anyone. We build houses with people in need without regard to race.

You have to be Christian to become a Habitat homeowner?
Habitat was founded as and unashamedly remains a Christian ministry. Homeowners are chosen without regard to creed, however, both in keeping with requirements of the law and Habitat's belief that God's love extends to all - regardless of race, creed or nationality. We also welcome volunteers from all faiths - or no faith who can actively embrace Habitat's goal of eliminating poverty housing from the world.

Habitat houses lower neighborhood property values?
Habitat's approach to affordable housing can improve neighborhoods and communities by strengthening community spirit; increasing the tax base; and building better citizens through the cooperative efforts.

Habitat homeowners sell their houses and make a large profit because of the original low cost?
Habitat Founder and President Millard Fuller has said "we have had no history of people selling their houses." This is mainly because many of the our family partners are finally given the opportunity of homeownership with the pride of assisting in the building of their homes. Since our homes are affordable, it would make no sense for them to sell the house, because if they rented or bought another homes, it would not be as affordable as their existing home.

Habitat for Humanity is an arm of the government?
Habitat for Humanity International is an independent, non-profit, ecumenical Christian ministry. It is not part of government, not an arm of any particular church denomination.

Poverty housing is such a large problem that it can never be solved?
Poverty housing is a huge issue. But Habitat believes that by continuing to build houses with those in need, by work with other committed groups, and by putting the issue of poverty housing on the hearts and minds of compassionate people everywhere, the problem can be solved!

Here are some questions frequently asked in regards to becoming an applicant (Family Selection):

Are you homes considered low-income housing?
No, we like to consider our home affordable, not low-income. The income levels of our homeowners are 30% to 50% of Salem County's median income of $54,000. This is a range of $16,200 to $27,000.

What is the average monthly mortgage amount?
The average monthly amount is between $400 and $450. This includes the interest free principal and escrow amounts (taxes, insurance, water and sewer).

What are the factors that your Family Selection Committee looks for?
1. Ability to Pay - The committee will review your current financial information, run a credit report, and look to see if you can affordably pay your mortgage each month in addition to utilities and your current debt load.
2. Current Housing Need - If you do have the ability to pay, the committee will schedule a home visit and see the applicant's current housing condition. We look at factors such as overcrowding situations, unhealthy living conditions, poor structure condition and/or unsafe neighborhood conditions.
3. Willing to Partner - This part deals with the applicant's ability to commit to the building of the home, the completion of the required sweat equity, and your commitment to being a family partner ambassador to our Habitat program.

What is your sweat equity policy?
Although sweat equity policies vary for each Habitat affiliate, our policy is 170 hours per adult in the household, with 50 of this amount that can be donated by friends, families, co-workers, etc. This sweat equity must be completed before settlement can take place and the family can move in.

Do I have to be a single mom or Christian to apply?
No, since we will hold the mortgage after the home is complete, we are considered a money-lender and must abide by the Federal Housing Guidelines. We do not discriminate nor discourage anyone from applying.

If I am turned down, can I reapply?
Yes, if you are turned down, you will remain on our mailing list and will receive notice on future housing projects. You will also receive our newsletter to keep posted on our progress.