Family Selection...
HOW DOES A FAMILY QUALIFY FOR A WINNESHIEK COUNTY HABITAT HOUSE?
Three standards are used by Winneshiek Habitat in choosing families with whom to partner.
- NEED: Families will be considered for a Habitat house if their present housing is not adequate and if they are unable to obtain adequate housing through conventional loans. The need for a decent house is the most important criterion in the selection of a family. Families living in inadequate housing will be given preference. Preference will be given to families who have resided in Winneshiek County for at least one year.
- ABILITY TO PAY FOR THE HOME: Applicants must be able to show a stable employment record and demonstrate a history of financial responsibility. No more than 25% of their income may be used to pay the expected monthly mortgage, insurance and taxes. If selected, a family must make a $500 down payment before construction begins.
- WILLINGNESS TO PARTNER: Each adult family member must be willing to contribute 150 hours of actual labor (sweat equity) on their house.* The recipient must meet 60% percent of this requirement; volunteer family and friends may contribute 40%. In addition, each adult family member will be required to provide 50 hours of sweat equity toward the building of the next Habitat house. (Volunteer family and friends may contribute 40% of those 50 hours.) [*the sweat equity requirement will be negotiated with the prospective family]
WHAT ARE THE INCOME LIMITS?
In the fall of 2015 the Board voted an increase in the income range. Winneshiek County Habitat for Humanity now uses a range of $30,000 to 43,000.
NOTE: Even if applicants do not fit in this income range, but meet the other standards listed above, they are encouraged to complete and return the Pre-application so that their information is on file. If an applicant’s circumstances change and they meet these criteria, they are encouraged to recontact Winneshiek Habitat.
WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE HOUSES AND WHAT IS INCLUDED?
The policy of Habitat is to provide simple and decent housing. The size of the house will be determined by the composition and size of the family. One bedroom will be allowed for each two children of the same sex. Two-bedroom homes will be approximately 900 square feet, three bedrooms 1,050 square feet (basement not included). Partner families will be offered their choice from several floor plans. Suggestions for slight modifications may be considered. Basic houses have one bathroom. Homes will have a garage. Refrigerator and range are included. Partner families may choose four other additional amenities from a list of nine.
HOW MUCH DOES A WINNESHIEK HABITAT HOUSE COST?
The houses vary in cost according to size, date of build, and other factors but recently the homes cost in the $100,000 range. The mortgage payment will include taxes and insurance and will typically be paid over 25 years with a zero percent (0%) mortgage.
HOW ARE PARTNER FAMILIES SELECTED?
A selection committee from the Winneshiek Habitat board reviews all applications and makes a home visit. The committee follows a non-discriminatory selection process without regard to race, gender, age, religion, ethnicity, marital status, national origin, disability, color, sexual orientation or any other legally protected status.
OTHER APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:
- Applicants must be US citizens/residents or be married to one.
- Applicants must agree to live in Winneshiek County.
- If legally married, but living separately, both spouses must apply as co-applicants.
APPLY
