Home Ownership– how to apply

Four fundamental criteria are used to determine who is selected to be a Habitat partner.

• Need for Shelter - The applicant's current shelter is inadequate because it is either structurally unsound, overcrowded, has unsanitary or unhealthy conditions, or the resident is paying more than 50% of household income for housing.
• Willingness to Partner - The applicant agrees to and completes 250-500 hours of sweat equity and participates in the partnering program which may include financial counseling and household management education.
• Ability to Pay - The applicant's Household income is between 30% and 50% of area’s median income based on family size.  For a 20-25 year mortgage, a homeowner’s monthly housing expenses would be approximately $500 to $600 per month (includes mortgage payment, home insurance, property taxes, and utilities).
• Residency for at least a year in the Northern Berkshire County area.

If you meet these criteria and wish to pursue home ownership through Habitat, contact us to learn more.  Call 413-664-4440 or email nbhabitat@msn.com for more information.  Please include your current mailing address and phone number.

We are currently accepting applications for our next home and hope to have a family selected and the project underway in early spring 2010. The application deadline is February 26.