ORANGE COUNTY, Fla – Applications are now open for the homeownership program through Habitat for Humanity of Greater Orlando and Osceola County.
Habitat for Humanity is hoping to make it easier for Central Floridians to own a home through its homeownership program.
According to their website, in addition to monthly mortgage payments, homeowners invest hundreds of hours of “sweat equity” into building their home and the homes of others.
They also attend Habitat U homebuyer education classes that teach them about financial literacy, home maintenance, safety issues, homeowner association involvement and credit counseling if needed.
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Once homeowners pick their lot, they’re also able to pick out certain finishes in the home like cabinet colors, flooring colors, countertops and whether or not they want carpet in the bedrooms.
There are certain qualifiers an applicant has to meet before moving forward with the process.
“So we have a range for qualification based on household types,” said Director of Marketing and Communications for Habitat for Humanity, Jenny Babcock. “They often fall within that minimum range and there is a maximum and they also have to have a 650 credit score or higher. We want to set you up for success with the homeownership.”
Donya Holley has been able to become a homeowner through the program.
“There is not a day that goes by I actually don’t walk through here, through the yard and say ‘Lord I thank you,’” Holley said. “It’s just a big, huge blessing.”
Holley said the program has changed her life.
“I say, I encourage anybody that even thinking about getting a home, don’t get discouraged, don’t feel like you can’t do it,” Holley said. “I’m not good enough or whatever doubt you have don’t feel like that, do not feel like that at all.”
Babcock said they’re planning to build in Holden Heights and starting to build homes in Parramore.
For more information on how to qualify, click here.
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