Frequently Asked Questions

Does Habitat for Humanity give houses away?

No. Habitat builds homes for qualified buyers who pay an affordable monthly mortgage. These mortgage payments then help Habitat build more homes for low-income buyers in your community.

Does Habitat for Humanity International provide funding for local builds?

No. Many believe Habitat for Humanity International funds local home builds, but that’s not the case. Henderson County & Thermal Belt Habitat for Humanity is responsible for raising its own funds locally through grants, donations, sponsorships, fundraising, and ReStore retail sales.

Can I donate for a local build through Habitat for Humanity International?

Yes, but note that Habitat International takes a percentage of each donation designated for Henderson County & Thermal Belt Habitat for Humanity, so we don’t receive the full amount. If you want your donation to support the Henderson County & Thermal Belt Habitat directly, please donate to us directly. Undesignated donations are kept entirely by Habitat International.

How long does the homeownership process take?

The application process generally takes 3-6 months, followed by an 8-12 month period for fulfilling the sweat equity requirement. Overall, it typically takes about 12-18 months from application submission to house closing.

What if I am not approved for homeownership?

If you don’t meet the Henderson County & Thermal Belt Habitat for Humanity criteria, you’ll receive a letter explaining the decision, along with a list of HUD-approved financial counselors or referrals to other qualified organizations.

Is there a limit to how many times I can apply?

No, there’s no limit on how many times you can apply for a Habitat home.

Who can I contact with questions about the application process?

We’re here to help! For questions or concerns about the application process, call us at (828) 694-0340.