Although you’ve probably heard of Habitat for Humanity, you may ask, “How does Habitat for Humanity work?”. Understanding how it works is essential in determining whether it is right for you.
Habitat for Humanity works by building simple, good-quality homes with the help of volunteers and donations. But it shouldn’t be mistaken for a charity organization. Homeowners must make a down payment and monthly mortgage. In addition, they also need to invest sweat equity into building their home. The incredible thing about Habitat for Humanity is that they offer mortgages with no interest.
Around one in four people need good quality housing, a statistic that Habitat for Humanity is committed to changing. But how does it work to change this? This guide will explain everything you need to know about how Habitat for Humanity works.
What Is Habitat For Humanity?
On paper, Habitat for Humanity sounds like your typical non-profit organization. However, the organization, with the assistance of volunteers, is focused on building houses for homeless and low-income families. But that isn’t to say that there isn’t controversy, with people questioning if HFH is a positive charity.
Habitat for Humanity is also a significant advocate for legislation that will increase the number of low-income houses. They also offer low-interest loans to homeowners and repair and refurbish homes.
With nearly 40 years under their belt, they have formed partnerships across the United States. And as a result of these partnerships, they have been able to build houses for nearly seven people across the country.
How Does Habitat For Humanity Work?
Habitat for Humanity provides good quality, affordable housing to needy families. Here is how it works:
1. Land Is Acquired
Habitat for Humanity either purchases land for a future home or is donated.
2. Secure Resources
Sponsors and donors donate funds, materials, and services that will allow Habitat for Humanity to build a home. These donations are primarily from organizations that count as tax-deductible gift-in-kind.
3. Homeowners Agreement
Homeowners agree to the requirements such as providing sweat equity hours and building their homes and homes of other families. In addition, they will also need to enroll in Homeowner Maintenance Education (HOME). Finally, they must attend financial, educational classes, and other requirements.
4. Home Is Built Or Renovated
Volunteers and homeowners will contribute their time to building or renovating a house. Most volunteer roles don’t require any experience or skills. Therefore, anybody is welcome that meets the requirements.
5. New Home Sold
Once the home construction or renovation is complete, they sell their home to a family. The new homeowners sign a long-term zero-interest agreement with Habitat for Humanity. Once everything is finalized, they give keys to the new homeowners.
6. The Cycle Starts Over
When new homeowners pay their mortgage, they contribute to the construction or renovation of other homes. As a result, the cycle starts over.
Conclusion
Habitat for Humanity homes follows a cycle of first building a home with the help of volunteers, homeowners, and donations. Once they complete the house, it is sold to the family at fair financing terms with zero interest.
Finally, they reinvest the mortgage payments from the family into the next home-building project, and the cycle begins again.