Buy a Habitat Home
Stable housing is the foundation for everything that matters: health, opportunity, and stability. We’re here to build it alongside you.
IMPORTANT: Applications are currently CLOSED. Sign up for alerts when applications reopen, or attend a one of our upcoming information sessions. See dates and sign up for alerts below.
What to Expect: Buying a Home From Habitat
When you become a Habitat homeowner, you’re not just getting four walls and a roof. You’re building the conditions for your family to thrive and a community that’s invested in your success.
- An affordable mortgage: your monthly payment is structured to never exceed 30% of your household income
- A newly built, energy-efficient home: designed to keep your utility costs low and your comfort high
- Build equity and peace of mind: homeownership creates an environment where your family can thrive, and you can save money
- Stability for your family: research shows that children in stable homes perform better in school and have stronger long-term outcomes
- A community that shows up: you’ll have the support of our team, our volunteers, and your neighbors from day one
Do You Qualify?
Our program is designed for people who are ready to take the first step and who meet these criteria:
- You live or work in Dutchess County
- Your household income falls within our guidelines (see income table for details)
- You’re a first-time home buyer
- You can obtain a mortgage with a third-party lender
- You can commit to homeowner partnership hours
Not sure if you qualify? Don’t let that stop you. Contact us, and we’ll walk you through your situation together.
| Household Size | Max. Household Income |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $70,500 |
| 2 Person | $80,600 |
| 3 Person | $90,650 |
| 4 Person | $100,700 |
| 5 Person | $108,800 |
Habitat helping me become a homeowner has been one of my greatest achievements. My daughter was a big part of my decision in becoming a homeowner, and I thank her for appreciating me, and Habitat for Humanity for this amazing opportunity for us.
– Cadien, Habitat Homeowner since 2019
Your Path to Homeownership
We walk with you through every step.
We’ve built this process to be clear, fair, and manageable even if homeownership has felt out of reach before.
Submit your contact information so we can notify you when applications open. This is your first step, and it costs nothing. While you wait, take our Homebuying Readiness Survey to find out how to prepare, whether that’s with us or on the open market.
When applications open, we’ll notify you. Attend an information session, gather your documents, and submit your application. Our team is here to help.
Our team reviews applications based on income, need, and ability to sustain an affordable mortgage. We assess your full financial picture, not just a credit score. Applications are reviewed by ID number, with no identifying information shared, to keep the process equitable.
Contribute time working alongside volunteers on your home or others’ homes. This is how we build together and how you build a deeper stake in your community.
We celebrate with you and stay connected as you build your future.
Free Financial Education Prepares You for What Comes Next
Habitat Dutchess offers financial education workshops through our Homebuying University program. The course is designed to give you the skills and confidence to meet your goals.
Our workshops cover budgeting, credit and credit repair, debt management, mortgages, insurance, taxes, and financial planning.
Join the Interest List: Applications Are Currently Closed
We open applications when homes are available. Sign up below and you’ll be the first to know when the next application period opens — along with information sessions, financial education workshops, and other ways to get ready now.
Upcoming Information Sessions
In-person Information Session dates/Locations:
- Tri- Corner F.E.E.D – Thursday, November 5
- Week of November 16 – Camino al Exito
Homeownership Interest List & Event Alerts
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Homeownership Program FAQ
Eligibility is based on Area Median Income (AMI) guidelines for your county and varies by household size. We generally serve households earning between 60–80% of AMI.
We do not require perfect credit. We assess your full financial picture, including income stability and ability to sustain an affordable mortgage payment.
Mortgage payments for a Habitat home are set at no more than 30% of your gross household monthly income and include Principal (mortgage), Interest, Taxes and Insurance in the calculation.
Homebuying partners complete a Service and Education Requirement including Homebuying University, which can be completed pre-partnership, First Time Homebuying Certification and attending events and job sites.
No experience is needed. Our staff and experienced volunteers will guide you through every task safely and confidently.
Typically 8-18 months, depending on available homes, funding, and your readiness timeline. We’ll communicate clearly at every stage so you always know where you stand.
Yes. Individuals are welcome to apply. Habitat homeowners include single adults, single parents, couples, and multi-generational households.
We welcome referrals from community partners. Contact our staff member, Jen Buitrago, at jennifer.buitrago@habitatdutchess.org, to discuss how to connect your clients with our program.