Habitat For Humanity of the Eastern Panhandle

Since Habitat homes are built with donated funds and materials and utilize volunteer labor, they are very affordable. Partner families will have a zero interest mortgage amortized over 20 years. Mortgage payments will include insurance and property tax.

Habitat partner families are required to complete 500 hours of "sweat equity" before occupying the house. These hours can be completed while working on their home, performing other duties related to Habitat EP, and attending homeowners education class. A portion of the hours may be donated by friends and other volunteers. By involving themselves in the building process, Habitat families gain self-reliance and skills to become successful homeowners. Continued guidance is provided for families such as assistance with budgeting, home maintenance and other issues that may arise.

Partners selected by Habitat EP are low income families living in substandard housing environments. They live in homes that are structurally unsound; have plumbing, electrical or other critical service problems; are severely over-crowded; or are in crime-infested neighborhoods. Partner families are generally unable to afford simple, decent housing through normal channels. To participate, applicants must be residents of Berkeley, Morgan or Jefferson Counties.

The percentage of monthly income that applicants spend on housing is considered in determining need. Eligible partner families are selected from a low income range based on an annual median family income for the Eastern Panhandle as provided by HUD. All or part of the applicant's income may be derived from public assistance. Complete credit checks, references, tax reports, proof of expenses and income, as well as background checks are required. Home visits are made to meet the applicant in their present environment.

Habitat EP is required to follow laws regarding mortgage lending and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, disability, familial status or national origin.
 

The first step in the application process is making a call to the Habitat EP Office and talking to an appropriate staff member about your interest.  Our phone number is 304-263-3154.