Frequently Asked Questions for Applying for Habitat Home

How are families selected to receive Habitat houses?

  • HFHBC's family selection committee chooses homeowners based on their level of need, their willingness to become partners in the program, and their ability to repay the no interest loan.
  • HFHBC is an Equal Opportunity Lender.

Are Habitat for Humanity houses free?

No. Habitat homeowners purchase their homes from Habitat for Humanity of Brevard through a zero-percent interest mortgage.

Do you have a waiting list?

No, we are always accepting applications. Actual occupancy could take up to one to two years.

How much is the monthly mortgage payment?

The monthly mortgage payment varies depending on the value of each individual home and the homebuyer's income. Currently the average monthly mortgage payment for new homebuyer's is between $600 and $700.

How long will it take before I move into my house?

The application process can take 1-2 months depending on how quickly applicants complete the required paperwork. It can take up to a year or longer from first application to the close on your home as sweat equity of 300 hours per individual on the mortgage is required.

Do I have to be employed?

No, but you must have a steady income and meet the household income minimums.

30-80% of Area Median income (AMI)
If you are unsure of where your income falls, please call for a no obligation pre-screening, through Community Housing Initiative (CHI) at 321-253-0053.

Qualifying income includes, but is not limited to child support, alimony, SSA, SSI, retirement and income from your employment.

Can a single person apply?

Married, or single people can apply and you don't have to have children to qualify.

Where do you build?

South (Melbourne/Palm Bay), Central (Cocoa) and North (Titusville) Brevard

Can I choose where I want my house to be built?

Yes, and No. You have the choice of South (Melbourne/Palm Bay), Central (Cocoa) or North (Titusville) Brevard. Once you are approved and complete 50% of your requirements, we will offer you a selection of currently available Habitat-owned building lots or existing rehabbed homes in the part of the county you chose. You will not have the option of searching for a site on your own.

What size house can I get?

Your home size will be based on the current needs of your family in accordance with HFHBC'S house size policy.

Can anyone help me with my sweat equity?

Yes, this will be explained when you enter the program.

Can I apply if I own a business?

Yes. Your complete income tax records for the previous two years will be evaluated closely to ensure you meet the income minimum and do not exceed the maximum income for your family size.

Do Habitat homeowners own the land as well as the home?

Yes. Habitat holds no ownership to the property once the closing process is complete.

Can I reapply if I am denied?

Absolutely. If you are denied from our program, we give you the tools and information necessary regarding what steps should be taken to qualify.

What happens to my house when I pass away?

We encourage you to make provisions after closing.

Has Habitat ever foreclosed on a house?

Yes, unfortunately, we have. You will purchase your home from us, and we expect you to make timely monthly mortgage payments.Your payments are important because they help fund homes for future families.