Thank you for your interest in Habitat for Humanity New Brunswick (HabitatNB) and our homeownership program.
We review all applications to verify the following Family Selection criteria:
1. Family is in need of affordable housing, due to one or more of the following factors:
- Poor structural conditions such as wiring, ventilation, heating or bathroom facilities.
- Medical disabilities and general health conditions are made worse by current housing.
- Location is not accessible to schools, shopping and transportation in a safe community.
- Overcrowding for the number of people living in the home.
- Percentage of income currently spent on housing is too high, over 35% of gross income.
- Currently living in subsidized housing.
2. You must have the ability to pay a mortgage.
- A family’s combined household income must fall within a defined range to qualify, with minimum income requirements varying based on location and size/style of home.
- Families must have a reliable source of earned income and demonstrate their ability to pay a fair market value mortgage. Sources of income considered in the review include:
- Employment income, disability income, and retirement income.
- We will ask for income verification of all adults intending to live in the home.
- Each family member must be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada.
- Your long-term debt ratio is also considered to confirm that you can pay a HabitatNB mortgage.
- Families must be able to pay for expenses associated with closing and moving.
- Monthly housing costs (mortgage + property taxes) are based on 25% of gross household income.
- Families are responsible for home insurance, which is not included in the 25% calculation.
- A satisfactory credit report is required with no bankruptcy within the last two years and not currently involved in a consumer proposal.
3. You must be willing to partner with us to advance the mission of HabitatNB.
- You will be asked to provide references and supporting statements for most of the criteria.
- We will look at your employment history and credit history.
- We will look at how you show determination to improve your family’s current situation.
- The Family Selection Committee may visit your current home to evaluate your needs.
- We will look at how you show willingness to participate in HabitatNB activities.
- As part of their partnership agreement, future homeowners are required to contribute 500 hours of volunteer time and complete a series of Homeowner Education Sessions.
The application process can take several months to complete. Thank you for your interest. We look forward to working with you.
