FAQs
We get great questions from our supporters and volunteers about Habitat for Humanity: How is it funded? Who purchases the homes we build? How does it affect my community? Below are answers to some often-asked questions:
No. Habitat for Humanity (Habitat) offers homeownership opportunities to families unable to obtain conventional financing — generally, those whose income is 60% or less of the area’s median income. Partner homeowner families contribute 250 hours of sweat equity into the construction of their homes or another Habitat for Humanity Clark & Floyd Indiana home and pay a monthly mortgage. Because Habitat houses are built with volunteers and in-kind donations, mortgage payments are kept affordable.
No. Low-cost housing studies in the United States and Canada show affordable housing has no adverse effect on other neighborhood property values. In fact, Habitat homes have increased property values and local government tax income.
Habitat operates through locally governed affiliates with a strong emphasis on grassroots organizations and local autonomy. Habitat affiliates are independent, nonprofit organizations that operate within specific service areas in a covenant relationship with Habitat for Humanity International.
No. Habitat is an ecumenical Christian housing organization. It is neither an arm of the government nor an arm of any particular church or denomination.
Habitat was founded in 1976 in Americus, Georgia by Millard and Linda Fuller. President Carter and his late wife, Rosalynn (whose home is eight miles from Americus, in Plains, GA), have been longtime Habitat supporters and volunteers who help bring national attention to the organization’s work. Each year they lead the Jimmy Carter Work Project to help build houses and raise awareness of the need for affordable housing.