path to homeownership
Focused on providing a hand-up rather than a hand-out, Habitat for Humanity proves that decent housing can be a path out of poverty for families.
APPLICATION INFORMATION
Enrollment is closed at this time.
about the program
This is NOT an immediate housing solution. After the application process of up to 5-6 months, the typical timeline for participants in the Path to Homeownership program can take another 15-18 months.
Updated July 2026
1. Characteristics of a
Habitat Homeowner
1. In need of better housing - unsafe neighborhood, inadequate housing, unaffordable rent, housing instability, overcrowding
2. Willing to partner with Habitat - homebuyers put in 250 hours of "sweat equity" building their own homes or volunteering for us in other ways.
3. Able to pay an affordable mortgage - GLHFH offers an affordable monthly mortgage payment and work to improve overall financial health and develop appropriate repayment plans to pay off existing debts.
2. Sweat Equity & Financial Education
Habitat does not give away houses, but instead offers homebuyers the opportunity to earn "sweat equity" building GLHFH homes. Utilizing volunteer labor and donations, Habitat is able to sell homes at no profit with affordable monthly mortgage payments. We also provide homebuyer education classes to help families build savings and improve their financial health in preparation for homeownership.
3. The Process
Habitat Homeownership is a long-term commitment and partnership between our affiliate and the homebuyer. The application process can take up to 6 months. If selected as a partner, the typical timeframe for buying your home and move in is an additional 18-24 months.
4. Apply for Homeownership
Over the next 5 years, we are building at least 11 homes. We will accept applications through the year during open enrollment periods to select our next homeowner-partners.
See below for more information.
Get Set for Homeownership
Prepare successfully for the next Habitat application by focusing on key areas:
ensure stable income
improve credit history
reduce debt ratio
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Go to Annual Credit Report to download your free report once a year.
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Reasons to view your reports: major purchases, life changes, managing debt, and spotting identity theft.
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GLHFH requires a credit score of fair or better. Read these helpful tips on how to build a good credit score.
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Feeling overwhelmed? You don't have to do this alone--get credit counseling by phone or online. Start here today
Pre-Purchase Prep
Pre-purchase Counseling is available at no cost with Advantage Credit Counseling. Use the resources, tools, and live guidance to get ready for purchasing a house!
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Calculate your DTI - Lenders like to see a DTI of 43% or less!
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Pay Off Debt Fast - George Kamel explains the debt snowball method
When families partner with Habitat, they start down a new path — one with far fewer barriers to a better, healthier, more financially stable life.
