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Making Homeownership Possible!

Sumter Habitat for Humanity helps make homeownership a reality for those who meet certain income qualifications. We offer affordable mortgage loans to buy homes in partnership with us. Discover what you need in order to apply for our program...

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Who can apply?

  • U.S. Citizens or Permanent Residents

  • Background Check: You will need to pass a criminal background check.

  • Financial Stability: You should be able to afford homeownership and have a stable income.

  • Housing Need: You should have a genuine need for housing.

  • Willingness to Partner: You need to be ready to work with us in building your future home.

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Financial Requirements

  • Steady Income: You should have consistent income history for the past 2 years in the U.S. With at least 12 months of steady income from your current job or income sources.

  • Self-Employed: If you're self-employed, you'll need two years of tax returns showing your income.

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Credit and Savings Requirements

  • No Credit Score Requirement: We don't require a specific credit score.

  • Old Debts: Any old debts like collections and charge-offs must be under $2,000 when you apply and must be resolved within 12 months of joining the program.

  • Payment History: We look at your recent payment history on things like rent, utilities, loans and other expenses. This includes monthly loan payments and estimates for deferred student loans. 

  • Bankruptcies must have been discharged or dismissed for 2 years for Chapter 13 and 3 years for Chapter 7.

  • Check Your Credit: You can get a free copy of your credit report from Annual Credit Report or by calling 1-877-322-8228.​

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Savings

  • Closing Costs: You'll need to save $1,500 for closing costs within about 12 months. 

Please review this chart for general income guidelines. These are subject to change, and having income within these guidelines does not guarantee eligibility. 

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Housing Needs

  • Income: Your income should be within the current household limits (check the chart for details)

  • Priority: We prioritize those with extra housing challenges, like paying more than 30% of your income on rent, living in overcrowded conditions, staying in temporary homes, being in unsafe environments and needing a home that's accessible for someone with a disability. 

  • Evaluation: If you qualify financially, we'll do a home visit to see your need better. 

  • Homeownership History: You shouldn't have owned a home in the last 2 years or had a foreclosure in the last 7 years. 

Willingness to Partner

  • Homeownership Classes: You'll need to attend several classes about owning a home.

  • Sweat Equity: Be ready to volunteer to help build your home and others. This can also include volunteering at the Habitat ReStore or Habitat events.

  • Flexibility: Be open to the location and design of the homes we have available. 

  • Resident of Sumter county for 12 months.

  • Must be willing to live in city limits where all homes are constructed. 

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