Partner Families
Partnering with Baytown Habitat is the first step toward becoming a homeowner. We do not give away homes. Instead, we work alongside you. Homeownership requires commitment, so you’ll invest time in sweat equity and financial preparation while we guide and support you every step of the way.
What it takes to qualify
A Need
Applicants must have a need for safe, affordable housing. This need can look different from family to family. Some applicants may be living in housing that is overcrowded, in poor condition, or unsafe. Others may be paying more than 50% of their monthly income toward housing costs.
Ability to Pay
Eligible applicants must have a stable income and fall within the low- to moderate-income range. For applicants in the United States, household income must not exceed 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI), as defined each year by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Willing Partner
Another key part of qualification is the willingness to partner with Habitat. Once selected, future homeowners work alongside us by contributing “sweat equity,” which may include helping build their home or another Habitat home, or taking part in homeowner education classes. These classes help prepare new homeowners for long-term success and cover topics such as home maintenance and repairs, budgeting, financial planning, and managing a mortgage.
Your Path to Becoming a Habitat Homeowner
Step 1: Attend a New Homeowner Orientation
Learn about the program, requirements, expectations, and next steps. This is where you decide if Habitat is the right fit for your family.
Step 4: Home Visit and Interview
We meet your family where you currently live to better understand your needs and answer questions in person.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Complete the homeowner application and provide supporting documents like income verification and household information.
Step 5. Selection and Partnership Agreement
If selected, your family signs a partnership agreement and begins required homeowner classes and sweat equity hours.
Step 3: Application Review
Our team reviews applications based on three areas: need for housing, ability to pay an affordable mortgage, and willingness to partner with Habitat.
Step 6. Build Your Future Home
You work alongside volunteers and staff to help build your home or other Habitat homes. This is where the relationship and learning truly grow.
Step 7: Closing Day and Move In
Once construction is complete and your affordable mortgage is finalized, you become a Habitat homeowner and receive the keys to your new home.