How Families Are Selected

Gwinnett Habitat uses three criteria to determine whether or not a family is ready to take part in the home ownership program.

NEED. Families often need a home because their current housing isn't viable. It may be overcrowded, too expensive, structurally unsound, or located in a dangerous neighborhood. 

ABILITY TO PAY. You must be able to afford a monthly mortgage payment. See the chart below for some guidelines.

WILLINGNESS TO PARTNER. Habitat homeowners work on their own homes as well as homes for others. Single-parent families must contribute at least 250 hours, and two-parent families at least 350. Included in these hours are mandatory homeowner education classes on such topics such as managing credit, budgeting, maintenance of homes and lawns, and preparing a will. You must be available on Saturdays, and you must understand and accept this "sweat equity" requirement.

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Income Guidelines

Habitat offers its program to families in specific income ranges, adjusted for the number of persons in your family. Income includes wages, SS, disability, SSI, food stamps, TANF and child support. Your total yearly gross household income must fall within the posted range below. 

Year 2012 Income Guidelines
Family Size	Minimum	Maximum
One	$12,150	$29,200
Two	$13,875	$33,300
Three	$15,600	$37,500
Four	$17,325	$41,600
Five	$18,725	$45,000
Six	$20,100	$48,300
Seven	$21,500	$51,600
Eight	$22,875	$55,000