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FAQs

Am I eligible for a Habitat home?
How are homeowner families selected?
What are "sweat equity" hours?
When can I move in?
What is expected?
What else do I need to know?

Am I eligible for a Habitat home?

You are potentially eligible for a Habitat home if the following statements apply to you:

• I have lived in Franklin County for a year or more.
• I have had the same job or source of verifiable income for 6 months or more.
• My current home is extremely overcrowded, in poor condition, or in an unsafe environment.
• My household income is within the income guidelines
• I am willing to make a small cash down payment.
• I am willing to live on a lot provided by Habitat.
• I am able and willing to work and contribute 200-250 "sweat equity hours."

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How are homeowner families selected?

Families in need of decent shelter attend an application meeting. The affiliate’s family selection committee chooses homeowners based on their level of need, their willingness to partner with HFH and their ability to repay the no-interest loan. Every affiliate follows a non-discriminatory policy of family selection. Neither race nor religion is a factor in choosing homeowner families.

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What are "sweat equity" hours?

"Sweat equity" hours are hours worked by the partner family assisting with construction of other Habitat homes, as well as construction of their own home. "Sweat Equity" hours are also worked by the partner family assisting at the Habitat for Humanity-Greater Columbus ReStore, in the HFHGC office, or acquired through various elective hour opportunities. Each homeowner must complete 200-250 "sweat equity" hours, 20 of these hours are acquired in classes that teach skills needed for homeownership, such as basic maintenance and budgeting. The sweat equity component is very important as it gives families a sense of accomplishment as well as teaches useful skills.

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When can I move in?

Families usually move into their homes within a year to two years from the date they applied. This depends on how quickly families can complete their "sweat equity" hours, make a down payment, and begin utility service.

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What is expected?

Habitat families are expected to reflect the willingness to partner that has made this program successful all over the world. Your responsibility doesn't stop after you move in. Homeowners are expected to become active members of the Habitat for Humanity-Greater Columbus community. All Habitat families must attend homeownership classes such as Caring for a Home, Budgeting, and Lawn Care Skills. Overall, families are responsible for the upkeep of their homes.

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What else do I need to know?

Your employment and credit history will be considered when you apply.