Become a Homeowner

To be considered for Broome County Habitat for Humanity's home ownership program, families must have lived in Broome County for the previous twelve months and meet the following criteria:

1. Housing is unsafe or has critical inadequacies such as problems with the structure, heating, water or electrical systems.
2. They spend more than 30% of their income on rent and heat combined.
3. All or part of the family is living with someone else due to housing issues.
4. They are overcrowded. This includes:
   a. more than 2 children share a room
   b. children share a room with an adult
   c. children of the opposite sex share a room
   d. rooms other than bedrooms are used for sleeping

If selected, families become a partner with Habitat. Each family must:

1. Complete between 300-500 hours of volunteer work (sweat equity hours) on the construction of your home and the homes of Habitat families.
2. Attend workshops in which you will learn valuable financial and home maintenance skills to assist you in being a successful homeowner.
3. Make a down payment of $500 and be prepared to pay for closing costs of approximately $2000.

Since selected families will be purchasing this house from Habitat, they will be paying a monthly mortgage which includes real estate taxes and homeowner's insurance (but still no interest). Therefore, regardless of your household size each family must:

1. Have a steady gross income of at least approximately $2,166/month ($26,000/year).
2. Be willing to let Habitat verify all income sources and check their credit report.
3. Have income that does not exceed 50% of the median family income for Broome County.

Families with income above the amounts below are not eligible for Habitat's home ownership program.

For reference, here is a table listing the maximum monthly income per family.

If you meet these criteria, we encourage you to contact us and be placed on the notification list.