Homeownership

Habitat for Humanity - Coosa Valley builds houses in partnership with families who demonstrate a need for housing, the ability to pay and also a willingness to partner. These homes are sold, not given, to approved homeowner applicants. Moving into and owning a Habitat home improves the quality of life for its residents, not only in their physical surroundings but also by instilling a sense of pride and responsibility which comes with homeownership.

Qualifications for Homeownership

To apply for homeownership with Habitat for Humanity - Coosa Valley:

  • You must be a US Citizen or permanent legal resident

  • You must be a first-time home-buyer

  • You must live or work in Chattooga, Floyd or Polk County for at least one year

  • You must have lived independently for at least one year

  • Your household income must fall between 50% - 80% of the area median income (Income guidelines are based on HUD’s housing income and are subject to change.)

Selection Process

Homeowners are selected on three criteria:

  1. Need

    You are unable to obtain a conventional mortgage

    Your rent is too high compared to your income

    Your current residence has maintenance issues that are not being addressed by the landlord

    Your current residence is too small for your family

  2. Willingness to Partner

    You agree to complete 250 - 300 hours of sweat equity. Sweat equity hours are earned by helping to build your home alongside volunteers and doing community service.

    You agree to complete all assigned homeowner education.

    You plan to fulfill your partnership with Habitat after purchasing the home by:

    1. Paying your mortgage on time

    2. Maintaining your home and lawn

    3. Observing all county and city ordinances

    4. Being a good neighbor

    5. Being a good representative of Habitat Coosa Valley

  3. Ability to Pay

    Your income is enough to pay the monthly mortgage, including taxes and homeowner’s insurance, in addition to your other bills

    Your income and work history must be 2 years stable and verifiable

    You demonstrate financial responsibility

    Your income falls with Habitat’s income guidelines

Applications will be available December 13, 2024.

Please note, an application with HFHCV does not guarantee that you will be qualified for Habitat housing. This is just the first step in a process that could take 4 – 6 months. Habitat Coosa Valley will notify you of your application status. If you have any questions, please feel to call us at (706) 378.0030.