Where We Build | Transylvania Habitat for Humanity

Around the corner and around the world

What we build…

Habitat builds quality 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes, according to the number of family members in a household.

Our homes are affordable, energy efficient and provide adequate living and storage space for most families. Our three-bedroom homes are typically around 1,100 square feet and have two full bathrooms. If your application for purchase is approved, homeowners can choose certain finishes to personalize their new Habitat home. Watch our video of a 3-bedroom to learn more!

VIDEO

The Facts on owning a Habitat home…

Know the FACTS before you apply:

Habitat for Humanity does NOT give homes away.
You do not have to have a particular belief system when applying.
You can apply as an individual or a family.
Habitat homes do NOT reduce a neighborhood’s value.
We build quality homes with incredible features such as energy-saving appliances.
Your housing payment will never exceed 30% of your annual income.

APPLY FOR HOUSING

Owning a Transylvania Habitat Home – FAQ

Do I get the home free of charge?

No! Our applicants will purchase the home from Habitat at an affordable rate for each applicant depending on your yearly income. In addition, each homeowner must complete 200 hours of “sweat equity” on their home while it’s being built. Remember – this is a partnership, not a handout.

If I buy a Habitat house, can I ever sell it?

Yes. Families and individuals who purchase Transylvania Habitat homes may sell them at any time. Habitat retains the right of first purchase to acquire the home as affordable housing stock, and our program includes a shared appreciation rider in which the homeowner shares a percentage of the home’s appreciation with Habitat.

Are there any other restrictions on owning a Habitat home?

Yes. Like all other affordable housing programs, Transylvania Habitat requires that its houses are occupied by the homeowner. You cannot use your home for business purposes, move out and leave it empty, rent it, or move out and let others live there. After a homeowner has fully paid the mortgage, these restrictions are removed. Transylvania Habitat requires that the property (house and yard) are maintained in good condition.

If my income increases after I have bought my house, will that affect my status as a homeowner?

No. Transylvania Habitat encourages all of its homeowners to continually improve their financial status through additional education, training, or job promotions/changes that provide better pay, hours and/or locations. We hope that having a stable home will allow homeowners the time and energy to pursue additional opportunities.

What happens if I can’t work due to illness/injury, or have my hours cut, and can’t pay my mortgage?

If homeowners cannot pay their mortgage due to temporary or permanent changes in income. Transylvania Habitat meets with homeowners to better understand the circumstances, puts plans in place to get payments back on track, and sends monthly letters documenting progress. We work with all of our homeowners who have the commitment, follow-through, and resources to help them keep their houses.

Transylvania Habitat for Humanity is a 501(c)(3) organization. All donations are 100% tax deductible as a charitable gift for federal income tax purposes.

In accepting and rejecting applications, Transylvania Habitat for Humanity must conform to all aspects of the Fair Housing Act and all Fair Housing Laws, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Fair Credit Reporting Act, the Privacy Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, as well as any local applicable laws as they apply to applications for a mortgage.