Step 1: Homeownership Information Session
A completed application includes completion of the virtual Loudoun Habitat for Humanity Homeownership Information Session. Anyone interested in the Loudoun Habitat for Humanity Homeownership program must complete the course in order for an application to be complete.
During the virtual course, you will learn about:
The Habitat for Humanity program.
The guidelines and program requirements for applicants.
Tools to help you examine your finances as you consider homeownership.
Step 2: Application
During the open application process, individuals interested in homeownership may apply. Applicants must live in Loudoun County, VA.
Step 3: Home Visit
Loudoun Habitat for Humanity reviews each application received for completion and financial eligibility. If financial eligibility requirements are met, a home visit will be scheduled. The home visit is an opportunity for Loudoun Habitat for Humanity representatives to assess the need for affordable housing and willingness to partner, which are factors in the decision to approve an application.
Step 4: Presentation to the Loudoun Habitat Homeowner Services Committee
Following the home visit, if it is established that there is a demonstrated need, a willingness to partner with Loudoun Habitat, and the ability to pay an affordable mortgage, the application will be presented to the Loudoun Habitat for Humanity Homeowner Services Committee to make the final decision of partnership.
Step 5: Partnership Begins
After an application has been approved by the Loudoun Habitat Board of Directors, applicants will be presented with a Home Buyer Agreement to sign. At this point applicants become future homeowners.
Step 6: Sweat Equity Begins
Sweat equity can take many forms when working with Loudoun Habitat. It can mean construction work on a Loudoun Habitat home, working in the Loudoun Habitat ReStore, assisting with administrative duties, or countless other ways of helping out. Future homeowners also participate in homeowner educational classes including topics related to financial management and home maintenance. Participation in these classes is required and also counts toward sweat equity.
Step 7: Home Search and Selection
Loudoun Habitat works with future homeowners to select a home in Loudoun County that fits the size of the household and affordability of the homeowners. Habitat homes are either built or renovated using volunteer labor to be safe, functional, and affordable homes.
Step 8: Home Dedication and Closing
Once sweat equity requirements have been met, and all home building and/or home renovations have been completed, the future homeowners are presented the keys to their home during a special dedication ceremony. Following the dedication, a home loan is finalized at a settlement meeting and the family moves into their newly purchased home.
