We know that the most important way for families to gain stability and self-reliance is when they own their own homes. Every day, more and more families find themselves in a struggle to keep a decent roof over their heads. Caught in punishing cycles of unpredictable rent increases, overcrowded conditions, or lack of access to land and affordable financing, these families live with a constant burden of uncertainty, stress and fear.

Habitat for Humanity knows that safe, decent and affordable homeownership plays a critical role in helping families to create a new cycle, one filled with possibilities and progress.

How does the Homeownership Program work?

Through the generous support from individuals, businesses, and community groups, Habitat raises money to buy land, pay for service and development charges, and materials to build a house. 

Once all of the money has been raised, the house is built with the help of many volunteers, Habitat build participants and professionals.

The completed house is then sold to a selected family at full market value. No down payment is required. Habitat for Humanity provides a 20-year zero-interest mortgage with affordable payments that are based on the family’s income.

The Habitat mortgage

1. The Habitat for Humanity mortgage is very unique with the following terms: Habitat for Humanity will provide a mortgage at 0% interest for 20 years
2. Monthly payments that include payment of property taxes, are based on the total gross income of the household.
3. In recognition of the public funding needed to build the home, the value of the home appreciation will be shared between the homeowner and Habitat for Humanity Niagara if the house is sold before 15 years. The share to the homeowner will be based on the percentage of the mortgage that has been paid.

(Note: mortgage terms are subject to change. The mortgage terms will be determined at the time of approval. )
To learn more about our homeownership program download our Steps to becoming a Habitat homeowner

Download a preliminary Application