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Where does TMHH build?
Currently we are building in Stead, on land that was donated by the City of Reno.
We have enough land to build 13 homes. In the past we have built in Northwest,
Central and North Reno as well as Sun Valley and Sparks.
How do I apply?
By completing a short Habitat for Humanity homeowner application. Your can request
an application packet that includes the needed application and informative handouts
by contacting the office by filling out the Quick
Contact Form and requesting the information sent to your residence.
How will my credit affect my chances?
Unlike traditional lending institutions Habitat for Humanity understands the credit
challenges of low-income families. We are looking for families that are making
an effort, but we realize perfect credit is not always realistic.
Do I get to choose where my home is built?
Habitat builds on whatever land is available at the time. Home sites are designated
on a first come first serve basis.
What are the monthly payments?
Monthly payments are based on several factors such as the cost to build the home
and family income at the time of move in. The average homeowners' loan payments
including taxes and insurance are about $400.00 a month. This is about half of
the average rent for the Truckee Meadows.
How long does it take to get approved?
Once you have completed and returned your application it will be reviewed by staff
and volunteers to see if it is complete and meets the minimum
qualifications. If so, you will receive a request for additional information.
When received and reviewed your application is sent to committee whom decides
if a home visit is warranted. The whole process should take can take a couple
of months from beginning to end but is worth the wait.
How long does it take to build a home?
This is due to the fact that we rely on volunteer labor, and
tax-deductible donations of money and materials to build our
houses.
Bankruptcy how will it affect my application?
If you have filed for bankruptcy in the past and it has been discharged it will
not affect your chances of being approved for a Habitat for Humanity Home. If
your bankruptcy has not been discharged we would ask that you complete that process
before you apply.
What is sweat equity?
Sweat equity is the term used to describe the volunteer hours that each approved
homeowner is required to perform. Each homeowner is required to put in 500 hours
towards building their home and the homes of other potential homeowners, as well
as taking classes in homeownership, budgeting, and financial management.
Who controls and manages TMHH?
Each affiliate is an independently governed entity. TMHH has
a Board of Directors (all volunteers) who conduct their own
fundraising and set their own policy. In addition, TMHH has
a full time professional staff to manage the daily operations
of the affiliate.
How does it work?
Through volunteer labor and tax-deductible donations of money
and materials, TMHH builds and renovates safe, affordable houses
with the help of the homeowner (partner) families. Habitat houses
are sold to the families at no profit and financed with affordable,
no-interest loans. The monthly mortgage payments of into a revolving
Fund for Humanity that is used to build even more homes.
A "Hand-Up" not a "Hand-Out"
Habitat is not a give-away program. In addition to a 1% cash
down payment and monthly mortgage payments, first-time homeowners
who meet the selection criteria of the Family Selection Committee
invest 500 hours of their own labor ("sweat equity")
into the building of their homes, other Habitat homes, and other
TMHH activities.
How does Habitat work with the Government?
Habitat does accept government funds for the acquisition
of land or houses in need of rehabilitation. Habitat does not
accept government funds for construction costs. Habitat also
accepts government funds for streets, utilities and administrative
expenses. Habitat is a non-profit Christian housing ministry,
not a government organization.
How does Habitat Fund its Building and Program Activity?
TMHH invites individuals, corporations, foundations, religious
congregations or other organizations to "adopt" or
sponsor a Habitat home or part of one. Through this partnership,
sponsors supply funds to cover material and construction costs,
permit fees and taxes. They also provide volunteers to work
with the homeowners and skilled construction workers in the
construction of the houses. Each affiliate raises its own funds
to build houses. Affiliates also tithe a portion of unrestricted
funds to HFHI to support the construction of homes around the
world.
Who can build?
Anyone over the age of 16 can build at an TMHH construction
site. No previous construction skill is required. Volunteers
are scheduled for construction, store and office needs through
our Volunteer Page.
Is Habitat a Christian Organization?
TMHH is based on Christian ideals, but is open to people
of all religions. You do not have to be Christian to volunteer
or apply for housing. |
