The Process
What it takes to become a Habitat homeowner
Preparing to own a Habitat home is a lot of hard work, but we’ll be by your side every step of the way. Here’s what to expect:
Applicants must request an application packet from us by calling (401) 732-4456 .  At this time our application  pipeline is full.

PHASE 1: Homeownership Application & Affordability Assessment
  • ​Applicant submits all required documents, including the Homeowners Application attach a $25 cashiers check or money order made payable to Habitat West Bay & Northern RI. This helps to offset the cost of doing  credit, criminal and sex offender background checks.  This fee in non refundable.
  • We will send verification forms to applicant’s landlord, employer, housing commission, etc., as applicable.
  • The entire application will undergo a careful review to ensure the applicant meets all of the Homebuyer Selection Criteria.
  • We will analyze an applicant’s income and credit report.
  • Applicant will be notified if the application was accepted for further processing or denied.
  • This process may take up to 3 months as we are an all volunteer board. We meet once a month on the second Wednesday of every month. 
PHASE 2: In Home Interview.
  • If the applicant meets the financial requirements, the applicant will be scheduled for a home interview.
  • During the home interview, two members of our Family Selection Committee meets with the applicant for additional analysis. This committee recommends applicants who qualify for the Homeownership Program to our Board of Directors.
  • If the Board of Directors accepts the committee’s recommendation, an acceptance letter will be mailed to applicant, inviting them to formally participate in our Homeownership Program.  If the application is denied, a denial letter will be sent to applicant.  
  • We stress that if you are declined, it does not mean we don't want you.  We encourage you to reapply. There may be several reasons for denial including a family that may be in greater need.
Habitat for Humanity supports equal housing opportunity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, familial status, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or lawful source of income.

Once accepted into the program, what’s next?
Becoming a Partner
  • The Partner Family will be matched to a Family Support Partner. This person is familiar with Habitat and will help with questions and problems, be supportive, and serve as an advocate. This partnership starts when the Partner Family is selected and lasts through the first six months of home occupancy.
  • Each adult applicant must work a minimum of 12 hours per month of sweat equity on their home and other projects we are working on to include events that we are planning.  2/3 of the Partner Family's sweat equity should be completed at the build site. Failure to compete minimum monthly sweat equity requirements can result in dismissal from the program.
  • You will be required to take and complete a Homebuyer Education Workshop. Once you complete the course please send a copy of your completed certificate to Habitat West Bay or your family partner. The hours it takes to complete the class are counted toward your sweat equity.  Locate a class 
  • At the discretion of the Partner Family, we may help you save $2,000-$3,000 for closing costs and escrow. Sometimes it's easier to save money little by little than by coming up with a chunk all at once.  It will also help you to transition from renting to homeownership.
The Closing
  • A certificate of Occupancy is issued at time of closing. It can take up to 15 months to complete the program requirements and move into a Habitat home.
  • All legal documents are signed, closing costs are paid and mortgage terms are finalized. The monthly mortgage payment depends on the tax rate in the area, the value of the home, maintenance and insurance escrows, and other various fees. 
Home Dedication
  • There will be a home dedication with participation with the Partner Family, volunteers and supporters.  There will be prayers, presentations and refreshments. The home will be open so that those who have helped in its construction and other supporters may see the completed project.
Good Community Neighbors and Partners
  • Partner Families will keep their homes and yards well maintained to encourage community resources to supply the resources necessary for Habitat West Bay to build more homes for people in need.
  • Partners will pay their mortgage on time
  • Partners will participate in making their community the best it can be
  • Partners are encouraged to continue supporting and staying involved with Habitat for Humanity by promoting Habitat programs, projects and educating other about the mission

For more information
Call (401) 732-6407 or
Email: homeselection@habitatriwestbay.org
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