Frequently Asked Questions
Will Baytown Habitat give me a house ?
No, but if you meet the criteria and are accepted into the program, we invite you to become a Habitat Family Partner and purchase one of our homes.
What is the first step toward purchasing a new home ?
If you are interested in the Baytown Habitat program and have reviewed the requirements, the next step is to learn more about our program and receive a homeowner assessment. Please call (281) 427-0866 to talk to someone about the process.
How are family partners selected ?
Applicants submit an assessment and then, if approved, an application. Applications are reviewed, and a home interview will be scheduled. The Family Selection Committee members then recommend which families will be selected.
Will Baytown Habitat run a credit check ?
YES. We will ask you as a homeowner applicant to submit financial documentation to us. We will verify income, check credit, and assess whether Habitat is an appropriate program for you. You do not have to have perfect credit, but Habitat needs to ensure that payments are made.
What is sweat equity ?
Sweat equity is the time participants invest instead of a down payment. Following approval by the selection committee, the future homeowner must complete 500 hours of sweat equity before being able to purchase the home. Your friends and family may also help work toward your hours, and you may do sweat equity on our construction sites.
How long is the process ?
Ideally, home construction begins within a year from the time of approval, and completion of the home will vary depending on our overall construction schedule. Unfortunately, the construction process is complex, with many variables depending on funding sources and the building requirements, and this complexity makes it difficult to predict the length of time from the purchase of a property to the completion of the home(s).
What kinds of homes does Baytown Habitat for Humanity build ?
We build simple, decent three- to four-bedroom single-family homes with between 1070 and 1270 square feet, depending on the family size. The size and layout depend on our construction schedule, funding sources, and each family’s needs. We can build to ADA standards at request.
What else is expected of family partners ?
In addition to sweat equity and homeowner classes, we ask families to share their stories. We occasionally get family partners to discuss the program or be featured in media, but we always respect your privacy and wishes. At Baytown Habitat, we build community by asking you to meet neighbors, get involved in Homeowners’ Associations, and become a true partner to our program.
* The selection of families who purchase Habitat homes is considered by the Family Selection Committee, using criteria that do not discriminate based on race, gender, ethnicity, age, handicap, religion, marital status, or because all or part of the applicant’s income is derived from public assistance programs.
