Qualifications


Amherst County Habitat for Humanity assesses families on the following basis:

  • Need for adequate housing
  • Ability to pay 0% mortgage
  • Willingness to partner

Applications are distributed upon completion of Homebuyers Club,  generally once a year. Further information can be obtained at the Amherst County Habitat for Humanity Office, 130 Ambriar Court (Beside Centra Amherst) or by contacting the office at 434-946-9596 or [email protected].

Families are considered for Habitat housing if their present living conditions are not adequate and if they are unable to obtain a conventional mortgage. Lack of adequate housing may include situations such as overcrowding, structural issues, health risks such as mold, etc. Consideration is also given to the ages and genders of the family members as compared to the number of bedrooms in the present living situation. The income to current housing cost ratio is also considered.

Other qualifications include:

  • A one year residency in Amherst County with possible exceptions.
  • A minimum credit score of 620. (We suggest monitoring your credit on an app such as Credit Karma in order to discover ways to improve your credit scores.)  Credit history includes bankruptcy, judgements, student loans, etc.
  • Income in the 30% to 60% of median income for Amherst County as determined annually by HUD.   Mortgage payments include taxes & insurance.
  • Ability to produce any documentation requested such as identification, pay stubs, income tax returns, etc.
  • Background Checks & Credit Reports will be ordered.

Willingness to Partner includes:

  • The homeowner is responsible for 300 total hours of sweat equity with a breakdown of 100 hours per able bodied family member over the age of 18 and the remainder hours through friends & family.
  • Satisfactory completion of mandatory financial training classes.
  • Ability to work agreeably with Habitat staff, volunteers and others. This also includes refraining from the use of foul language. Respect for our program must be shown.
  • There will be no drug or alcohol usage on the jobsite.

Your information is not shared other than as it pertains to the completion of your transaction.