CRITERIA TO QUALIFY

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Current shelter has problems with the heating system, water supply, electricity, bathroom(s), kitchen, structure, etc.

Current shelter has an inadequate number of bedrooms as determined by number, ages and sex of household members.

The current neighborhood is unsafe.

The family is unable to obtain a conventional or government-assisted mortgage loan to purchase a home.

The maximum household gross income is below 80% of the median family income as outlined in the MSHDA Office of Community Development.

Homeowner net worth, including all assets cannot exceed $20,000.00.

The household income is at least 25% of the area median income as outlined in the HUD guideline.  Applicant must demonstrate the ability to pay a 0% interest mortgage payment (payment will include property taxes and insurance).

Favorable or repairable credit and landlord reference evaluations. All financial judgments must be cleared prior to closing. Payments on bad debts must begin immediately upon signing the letter of acceptance.  Applicant debt to income ratio must not exceed 38%.

Applicant must make a minimum down payment of $750.00 and will be responsible for paying one year insurance premium before closing.

Partner family may be responsible for paying closing cost and a down payment based on their income/assets.

In addition to the applicant understanding and willingly agreeing to the affiliate’s requirement of each adult in the household providing 250 hours of sweat equity on a Habitat project prior to occupancy.  The qualified applicant will demonstrate an eagerness, understanding and realizations of the program. Families must attend  Dave Ramsey Financial Peace University classes and other financial management classes.

Family must demonstrate positive attitude and willingness to communicate effectively with Habitat staff concerns without minimal disruption to the program or operation.

Residency in our GSA is required.  The board reserves the right to make decisions to approve candidates outside of our GSA on a case by case basis due to their specific circumstance

Geographical Service Area:

Belleville, Canton, Dearborn Heights, Garden City, Inkster, Lincoln Park, Livonia, New Boston, Northville, Plymouth, Redford, Romulus, Sumpter, Taylor, Van Buren, Wayne and Westland