what is our homeownership program?

a partnership with us

Since 1987, we’ve helped more than 100 families build better lives through safe, affordable homeownership. If you’re living in unsafe, overcrowded, or unaffordable housing, our program may be a path forward. Habitat homeowners work alongside volunteers to help build their homes and purchase them with an affordable mortgage.

Homeownership is more than just a house—it’s a foundation for stability, growth, and opportunity. If you're ready to take the first step, review the qualifications below. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

eligibility

in need of better housing

Potential homebuyers must demonstrate a need for safe, decent housing. This may include living in overcrowded conditions, an unsafe or unhealthy home, housing that is not accessible for a disability, or spending more than 30% of your income on rent.

willing to partner with Habitat

Each homeowner puts in "sweat equity" hours, which means they help build their own home and the homes of others, take home preparedness classes, and volunteer in other ways. This partnership is a big part of our program.

able to pay an affordable mortgage

Each Habitat home is sold to the homeowner with a no-profit, affordable mortgage. To qualify, families must demonstrate the financial ability to make monthly mortgage payments and cover other household expenses. Income requirements are based on HUD’s annual guidelines and help determine if an applicant can sustainably manage the costs of homeownership. These mortgage payments are then reinvested to help build more affordable homes in our community.

live in our service area

In addition, applicants must currently live within Habitat for Humanity of Eastern Connecticut’s service area. This ensures we’re serving the communities we know best — building strength, stability, and self-reliance right here at home. Not sure if you're in our area? Check the map below to find out.

U.S. citizenship or permanent residency

To qualify for our homeownership program, you or a member of your household must be a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident.

Homebuyer Requirement

Applicants must not have owned a home in the past three years. This helps ensure we’re supporting families who need their first opportunity to build equity and stability through homeownership.

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the process

phase 1

Submit the pre-screen application found under Ready to Apply at the top of the page, complete a monthly budget worksheet, obtain a recent credit report and score, and seek pre-qualification from a mortgage lender.

phase 2

Complete the formal application and provide all required supporting documentation for review.

phase 3

The Board of Directors will review the submitted information and vote on whether to approve the applicant for entry into the homeownership program.

Habitat’s Homeownership Program is a long-term solution to homeownership. The program typically takes between 12 and 18 months to complete. Once a homeowner purchases the home, we begin a 30-year relationship as homeowners pay down the mortgage. If you are in need of immediate housing, please let us know. While our program is not designed for urgent housing needs, we can connect you with community partners and resources that may be able to help right away.

Contact Us

homeowner readiness workshops

Ready to own a home—or simply curious about what it takes? Our Homeowner Readiness Workshop is a FREE, interactive class series designed for anyone who wants to:

• Understand the homebuying process. Learn about credit, budgeting, and the steps from application to move-in day.
• Build financial confidence. Get practical tips on saving for a down payment, managing debt, and improving your credit score.
• Explore our Homeownership Program. Discover income requirements, partner family responsibilities, and how to apply.
• Connect with experts. Meet mortgage counselors, real estate professionals, and current Habitat homeowners who’ll share their stories and answer your questions.

Contact us at [email protected] or call 860-442-7890 x201 for details and to register.

why you should partner with us

we make homeownership truly affordable

According to the Urban Institute’s 2021 report on New London County, nearly half of all renter households are cost-burdened—spending over 30% of their income on housing. At Habitat, we ensure that our homeowners never pay more than 30% of their total income on housing, making homeownership a sustainable and secure path forward.

we support you every step of the way

From the first application to move-in day and beyond, we walk alongside you. Whether it’s navigating paperwork, building financial literacy, or learning home maintenance tips, we offer guidance, education, and resources to help you feel confident and capable as a new homeowner.

we believe in your future and your community’s

When you become a Habitat homeowner, you’re not just building a house—you’re laying the foundation for generational stability, wealth, and belonging. Your success strengthens the fabric of our neighborhoods, and together, we grow a more connected, vibrant Eastern Connecticut.

FAQs

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How long is the application process?

On average, families complete the Homeownership Program in 12–18 months, though exact timing varies depending on how quickly required sweat equity hours are completed, your completion of educational classes, and when a suitable home becomes available.

How do I apply?

Start by visiting our Homeownership page and let us know you're interested in partnering with us, then submit your completed application form and documentation. We review each application thoroughly and contact applicants about next steps in the process.

Who qualifies for a Habitat home?

Qualified applicants must have a demonstrated housing need, live in our service area, be able to pay an affordable mortgage, and be willing to partner with Habitat — this includes completing required sweat equity hours and homebuyer education courses. We also require that all applicants are citizens or permanent residents, and that you have not owned a home in the past three years.

Can anyone apply to be a Habitat homeowner?

While our program is open to many, not everyone is eligible. You must meet specific criteria—such as income limits, housing need, residency in our service area, and ability to partner with Habitat. We encourage you to review the eligibility requirements and reach out to [email protected] or call 860-442-7890 ext. 201 if you have questions — we’re here to help you determine if our program fits your needs.

Privacy Policy: All information concerning homeowners or prospective homeowners, including their names, addresses, telephone numbers, social security number, financial records, and employment information, etc., shall be kept strictly confidential by Habitat for Humanity of Eastern Connecticut, its staff and volunteers, unless permission is obtained from homeowners to release such information.

We will not sell, share or trade our homeowners' names or personal information with any other entity, nor send mailings to our homeowners on behalf of other organizations.