
Am I Qualified?
HFHM's family selection committee chooses homeowners based on several criteria, including their ability to repay the no-interest loan, level of need, and their willingness to become partners in the program. HFHM follows a nondiscriminatory policy of family selection.​
Primary Considerations
Partner Families must meet several criteria. The areas below are the primary considerations used in selecting a Homeowner Partner.
Residency & Housing
Residency Requirements
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Be a U.S. citizen
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Be a resident of Middlesex County for a minimum of one year
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Be a first-time homeowner
Are you living in substandard housing due to
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High cost / rent - above 35% of net monthly income
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Condition is below minimum standards
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Current situation is overcrowded
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Living with another family
Income & Financial Stability
Homeowner Partners must be able to make long-term mortgage payments demonstrating financial responsibility and stability.
Factors for consideration include
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Annual income must fall within qualifying range
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Length of time with current employer is considered
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Ability to pay closing costs
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A monthly payment plan will be set up to help cover closing costs and demonstrate financial responsibility throughout the process.​
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Credit & Criminal Background
Habitat for Humanity Middlesex will conduct both a credit and criminal background check on all potential Homeowner Partners.
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Credit History
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Should not have outstanding judgments or bankruptcies (other than medical) in the last three years
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Should be no accounts more than 60-days past due
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Criminal Background
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No felony convictions
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No sex offender database
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No outstanding warrants
Partnership
Homeowner Partners must demonstrate a willingness to partner with Habitat Middlesex through ​sweat equity requirements and financial workshops.
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Sweat Equity
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Homeowner Partners are required to provide 400 hours of "Sweat Equity" to assist in the construction of their home.
Training Workshops
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Homeowner Partners are required to attend and complete training in areas such as budgeting, home ownership, legal issues, and energy efficiency.