Could you qualify?

1. First-time homebuyers are encouraged to apply. Limited exceptions may be available for applicants who have previously owned a home.
2. Eligibility for Habitat for Humanity's homeownership program is based in part on HUD income guidelines, which vary by household size and service area. Income limits are reviewed and updated each year. To qualify for the program, your total annual household income must be between 30% and 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for the Omaha-Council Bluffs Metro Area, based on the number of people in your household. See HUD Income Chart Below
3. Habitat serves households with a need for safe, affordable housing. This may include concerns related to affordability, overcrowding, safety, accessibility, or other housing challenges. Each household's situation is reviewed individually.
4. Applicants must be able to verify steady and reliable income for the past two years.
5. We do not use credit scores to determine eligibility. Instead, we review your payment history. If you do not have a traditional credit history, we can use alternative methods to verify your history of making on-time payments.
6. Applicants who have filed bankruptcy may still be eligible. The bankruptcy must be discharged, and a minimum of two years of reestablished credit history must be demonstrated.
7. Habitat homeowners partner with Habitat for Humanity of Council Bluffs by completing Sweat Equity hours. Sweat Equity can be completed by volunteering in our ReStore, working on construction sites, or assisting our office staff.
8. We want our homebuyers to feel confident and prepared for homeownership. Applicants participate in three educational courses, including topics such as budgeting and homeownership readiness, at no cost through our approved partners.

9. To be eligible for our program, applicants must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. 

    

   Ready to Get Started?
   Email jmace@habitatcb.org to request a printable application, or visit our office at 1228 S. Main Street, Council Bluffs, IA 51503 to pick up an application in person.