Homeownership Frequently Asked Questions
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| New Habitat homeowners on their front porch. (Photo by Steffan Hacker/HFHI) |
Does Habitat for Humanity of Omaha give away homes?
No. Habitat for Humanity of Omaha sells houses, for full price, to qualified, low-income individuals and families. All Habitat Omaha Family Partners pay a modest down payment, sign standard loan documents, and make affordable, monthly mortgage payments to repay the 0% interest loan over 20-30 years. Habitat Omaha offers homeownership opportunities to families unable to obtain conventional financing.
How often do you accept Pre-Qualification forms?
Habitat Omaha accepts Pre-Qualification forms year round but evaluates them twice a year during our two, formal application periods held in the spring and fall. Pre-Qualification forms are available in our office, by mail, and on our website.
What if my application is denied?
You will have an opportunity to discuss the reasons for your denial with Habitat Omaha staff. As your circumstances change, you may reapply as many times as you want.
What is “Sweat Equity?"
Sweat Equity provides opportunities for Family Partners to learn skills for successful homeownership through hands-on work on the construction site, educational workshops, and classes. Habitat Omaha Family Partners contribute 350 Sweat Equity hours before purchasing their home.
Where are Habitat Omaha homes located?
Habitat Omaha builds primarily in North Omaha, between 16th St. and 42nd St and Cuming St and Redick Ave.
Do I need to have perfect credit?
No, but you should be aware of and actively addressing any credit issues. Your credit history will be evaluated during the application period, Habitat Omaha will collect credit letters, a landlord letter, and pull your credit report to create a comprehensive picture of your credit history. Should your application be denied for credit related reasons, we will provide you with community resources that could help you begin to address those issues before you reapply. (Note: Credit score is not a factor in the application process. Only current outstanding collections and judgments affect qualification.)
