Apply for affordable homeownership today!
Accepting applications February 1st – July 15th 2024. See below for application instructions and eligibility criteria.
Our application period is currently closed.
Path to Homeownership
Check out other housing programs in the meantime.
Affordable homeownership with Habitat
With a little help, we all have the potential to stand on our own.
Habitat for Humanity of Tompkins and Cortland Counties provides an affordable homeownership opportunity by offering a “hand up, not a hand out.” Habitat homebuyers help build or fix up their house (we call this “Sweat Equity”) and take out an affordable mortgage.
Eligibility
We evaluate applications based on NEED, ABILITY TO PAY, and WILLINGNESS TO PARTNER.
A successful Habitat homebuyer:
- Has a steady income, and is able to pre-qualify for sufficient mortgage financing. Your gross household income must also be at or below the current maximum amounts are listed below by household size. (NOTE: if you receive Section 8 assistance, you may be able to use this toward your mortgage!)
- Is a good credit risk, and able to qualify for an affordable home loan. Worried about your credit? We can help you get started on your path to home purchase.
- Is in need of decent housing.
- Is willing and able to invest at least 350 hours of Sweat Equity. Habitat homebuyers help build their homes, as well as take classes and do other work to prepare to be a homeowner.
- Has not owned a home in the last three years.
Questions? Call or text 607-844-3529 or email liz@tchabitat.com.
Maximum Gross Household Income Guidelines for Applicants for 2024-25
| 1 person | 2 person | 3 person | 4 person | 5 person | 6 person | 7 person | 8 person |
| $46,320 | $52,920 | $59,520 | $66,120 | $71,460 | $76,740 | $82,020 | $86,700 |
Income guidelines for applicants living in Tompkins County for 2024-25
Cortland County maximum gross household income
Income guidelines for applicants living in Cortland County for 2024-25
| 1 person | 2 person | 3 person | 4 person | 5 person | 6 person | 7 person | 8 person |
| $34,740 | $39,660 | $44,640 | $49,560 | $53,580 | $57,540 | $61,500 | $65,460 |
We do not discriminate based on age, race, color, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, handicap, familial status, citizenship or immigration status.
How to apply
If you feel you meet the guidelines above, you may qualify. Please call 607-844-3529 or e-mail to discuss. We want to help.
Contact us if you have additional questions.
Read Our Homeowner’s Stories
Each Habitat house becomes someone’s home. The walls are so much more than just a structure and it represents a huge shift in our homeowners lives. Read their inspiring stories and learn about the impact that our work makes!
