These are the 8 steps to becoming a Habitat homeowner. Please read below to get started on your journey towards homeownership! Steps are subject to change.

1) Please read our requirements on How to Qualify. After reading them over,  request the Keys to Homeownership Flyer, providing detailed information about our Keys to Homeownership Event by calling (317) 921-2121 or click here to submit a request for information. Keys to Homeownership Events are held twice a year (as needed)—in the spring and the fall in Indianapolis.

2) Attend the Keys to Homeownership Event to learn about the program (next one to be determined). At this event, we will evaluate your credit report and income to determine if you meet our qualifications. Please be prepared to bring requested documents outlined in the Keys to Homeownership Flyer.

3) Our Home-Buyer Selection Committee and Staff will then review your complete application and documents. If you do not meet our requirements at this time, we mail out a letter of notification.

4) If your complete application and documents meet our initial requirements, we will conduct a home visit to determine your approval for our traditional homeownership program or our new program called The Bridge to Homeownership.  The Bridge to Homeownership Program offers supplemental financial advising from Indianapolis Neighborhood Housing Partnership (link) at Habitat’s office.

5) Once approved for either program, you will receive a letter of notification and be asked to sign a Partnership Agreement.

6) You are then eligible to start earning sweat equity hours.  Each family is required to contribute at least 450 hours of sweat equity, which consists of education, community service, and building your home. Education classes are held Tuesday and/or Thursday evenings. These courses cover topics such as finance, home maintenance, and interior design.

7) Your journey towards homeownership could be just a few months or up to two years depending on a range of factors. You will be asked to pay at least $500 upon signing your Purchase Agreement in order to cover closing costs and your first year of homeowner insurance.

8) Make your house a home! After moving into your home, your monthly mortgage payments will begin. Our average homeowner pays $350 monthly for a 30 year interest free mortgage.