Purchase a Habitat Home
If you live in Dutchess County and dream of owning a home but don’t know where to start, Habitat Dutchess can help. Our homeownership program offers more than a house. It’s a partnership to help you achieve your dream.
IMPORTANT: Applications for the Home Buying Program Are Currently Closed
We plan to reopen our applications when homes are available to sell. Sign up for alerts to be contacted when applications reopen.
Sign up for alerts with our interest form.
Buying a Home From Habitat
At Habitat for Humanity, we believe everyone deserves a safe, affordable place to live. That’s why we partner with people in our community to build affordable homes—and brighter futures.
If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and take the first step toward buying your first home, we’re here to walk alongside you.
As a future Habitat homeowner, you’ll:
- Buy a newly built, energy-efficient home in Dutchess County
- Pay an affordable mortgage based on 30% of your household income
- Build equity, stability, and peace of mind
- Work side by side with volunteers and neighbors who want to see you succeed
No gimmicks. No shortcuts. Just hard work, commitment, and a whole lot of support.
Who Qualifies to Buy a Home
Families that meet the following criteria are eligible for buying a home with Habitat Dutchess:
- You can pay an affordable monthly mortgage payment. Monthly payments will be based on 30% of your household income for your mortgage, taxes, interest and insurance.
- You can obtain a mortgage with a third party lender.
- You’re willing to partner with Habitat by serving your community and attending educational workshops
All of our homeowners are first-time buyers. Some are single parents. Others are multi-generational households. You can be an individual and purchase a home through Habitat.
How the Process Works
We keep it simple. Once you join the interest list, here’s what to expect:
- Submit the Interest Form: This lets us know you’re interested and want to be notified when applications open.
- Complete the Homebuying Readiness Survey: Click here to take the survey. This will help Habitat Dutchess guide you on how to prepare to apply, or purchase a home on the open market
- Sign up for Homebuying University: You don’t have to take classes to apply for Habitat Dutchess, but HBU is a great way to get yourself prepared.
- Apply when an application period is open: Attend a virtual or in-person information session to learn how to apply, gather your supporting documents, and get started! If you have questions, our Homeownership Services Coordinator is here to help.
- Application Review Committee: Once your application qualifies for eligibility, our application review committee reviews all qualifying applications to nominate an applicant for board approval. The committee reviews applications via ID number, with no identifying information shared to keep the process equitable.
Please note: Application periods open when homes are available. Currently, our application period is closed. Please sign up for information and updates.
Preparing for Buying a Home with Financial Education
We don’t just hand you a set of keys. We stand beside you through every phase of your journey.
You’ll have access to financial education workshops, covering everything from budgeting to understanding your mortgage. We’ll also work with you as you complete volunteer hours—what we call sweat equity—by helping build homes, working at our ReStore, or joining community events.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Habitat home cost?
Every Habitat home is sold at an affordable rate based on your income. We’ll make sure your monthly payments are manageable and never more than you can reasonably afford.
Do I need to be employed or have a certain credit score?
We look at your full financial picture—not just your credit score. Steady income and the ability to repay an affordable mortgage are key.
What is my partnership commitment?
As part of the process, you’ll contribute time helping to build homes, attend workshops, or support our ReStore. It’s how we work together—building strength, skills, and a sense of ownership.
I’m a single individual, can I still apply for homeownership through Habitat?
Yes!
Can I apply if I’ve never owned a home before?
Yes! Most Habitat homeowners are first-time buyers. You don’t need to have any experience—just motivation and a willingness to partner.