Habitat homes are not free. We offer a 0%, interest free mortgage for our partner families. Through volunteer labor and donations of money and materials, Habitat builds houses alongside our homeowner partner families. These families not only work on their own homes, but they work on other homes as well. Our partner families make down payments, pay taxes, and have monthly mortgages, but the mortgages are financed by Habitat for no-interest. These mortgage payments allow us to build more Habitat homes.

Habitat does not have a minimum credit score requirement; however, we do review an applicant’s credit history and current debt as part of the evaluation process. We’re primarily looking at your overall debt and whether there are any unpaid accounts that have gone to charge off.

Sweat equity refers to the actual hands-on involvement of Habitat homebuyers and volunteers in the construction of their own homes, as well as participation in other Habitat and community activities. All sweat equity hours must be completed before pre- approved homebuyers purchase their home. Additional program requirements include homeownership education classes and community engagement events.

No, the homes aren’t free, but they are affordable. Habitat believes in a hand up, not a handout. Homes are affordable because of no-profit loans and the “sweat equity” provided by partner families and volunteers.

You must be a citizen, permanent resident or a green card holder to apply.

Our service area includes: James Island, Johns island, Wadmalaw Island, Ravenel, Adams Run and Edisto. We consider applicants preferred locations but we build where we are able to acquire land.

Our program relies on donations to fund homes, and community volunteers to help construct them, so this time frame sometimes varies. It can take over two years from approval to move in.

Yes, like other affordable housing programs, Habitat for Humanity requires that its houses are homeowner occupied. This means that you cannot use it for business purposes, rent it out, or move out and let others live in your place.