Homeownership

People in our community partner with Ashe County Habitat for Humanity in order to build more than a house—they build a home. Habitat homeowners work alongside many volunteers to build each home. They buy the house with an affordable mortgage that is based on their ability to pay. We build together.

Need for Affordable Housing

• Current living conditions are overcrowded, substandard or public housing
• Current rent and/or utility costs are excessive
• Current rent exceeds 30% of gross income

Ability to Pay

• Applicants must have the ability to pay an affordable mortgage
• Income must be stable and verifiable. Annual income must fall within 30% – 80% of Ashe County’s median income
• Habitat mortgage payments and applicants’ debt cannot exceed 40% of gross income
• Applicants must have satisfactory credit that demonstrates the ability and willingness to repay the mortgage

Willingness to Partner

• Live and/or work in Ashe County for at least 12 months prior to application
• Must be a legal U.S. resident
• Willing to invest “sweat equity” by volunteering 200 hours per adult
• Willing to attend homeowner education classes
• Willing to prepare and maintain a personal budget
• Have no serious criminal background