Homebuyer Selection Criteria
Habitat is currently building 2- and 3-bedroom, 2-bath homes.
Homebuyers applying for a Habitat for Humanity of Kitsap County home must meet the following criteria:
1. Income
Total household income must be 80% or less than the area median income (some areas require 65% or less). Note that unemployment income cannot be counted.
Maximum Income Chart
| Household Size | 80% | 65% |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 69,650 | 56,615 |
| 2 | 79,600 | 64,675 |
| 3 | 89,550 | 72,735 |
| 4 | 99,450 | 80,795 |
| 5 | 107,450 | 87,295 |
| 6 | 115,400 | 93,730 |
2. Ability to Pay
Applicants must demonstrate that they can afford the home’s mortgage payment without being cost-burdened. The following must also be true:
- Applicant must have worked in the same occupation for one year or at least two years if self-employed
- Applicants must show that they have at least 1% of the purchase price (approximately $2,500 – $4,500, depending on the home) set aside at time of application
- There may be a minimum credit score requirement of 620, however applicants must have a credit history with no active disputes and show a history of on-time payments proposed
- Applicants must be clear of any liens and judgments; any bankruptcies must be discharged at least 4 years ago
- All other monthly debt obligation must not exceed 13% of an applicant’s monthly gross (pre-tax) income (includes HOA dues, installment loans, credit card debt, etc.)
3. Residency
Applicant must meet the following residency requirements:
- Applicant must live or work in Kitsap County
- Applicant must not have owned a home within the last 3 years
- Applicant must use the home as their primary residence
4. Willingness to Partner
Our homebuyers contribute to the building of their community and furthering of Habitat’s vision, a world where everyone has a decent place to live, through participation in volunteer opportunities.
These opportunities can be completed in a variety of ways. Examples include working at the Habitat construction sites or stores, helping with Habitat or partner events, participating in a speaking opportunity on video, or working in our office.