Applying for the Program
- Applying for the program consists of the following:
- Complete a written application
- Submit required supporting documents (such as tax returns and verification of income, employment, credit history, and rental history)
- Participate in an underwriting review to determine affordability and mortgage eligibility
- Complete a home visit with the Selection Committee to assess housing need
- Receive final approval from the Board of Directors
Habitat may modify the application process as needed to ensure the safety of applicants, volunteers, and staff.
All buyers are referred to as Partners on purpose. We must work together in partnership to realize Habitat’s mission of decent housing for all. This partnership begins at the time of application.
Applications must be returned in person by the applicant during office hours. Monday-Friday 8:30 am until 4:30 pm. Please call to schedule a time to submit your application, (865) 982-8717 option 2.
We will not process incomplete applications.
Applications are available:
- Print from blounthabitat.org
- Request by email: becky@blounthabitat.org
- Pick-up at our main office - 1017 Hampshire DriveMaryville, Tennessee 37801
- Pick-up at the ReStore– 548 N. Foothills Plaza Dr., 865-982-8717
Application Assistance by appointment. Call 865-233-9111 Option 2 to schedule.
Complete as much of the application as you can before the meeting.
Sweat Equity: What is that?
Sweat equity is the time and effort buyers contribute as part of the Habitat homeownership program. This includes attending educational classes, learning money management skills, volunteering at the Restore and special events, helping build homes, and serving in the community.
Sweat equity does not have a dollar value and is not refundable if a homeowner is deselected or withdraws from the program.
Sweat Equity: What is that?
Habitat requires Sweat Equity for many reasons:
- Communities and partnerships are strongest when everyone plays a role.
- Sweat equity builds community and creates meaningful connections between buyers, Habitat staff, volunteers, and the community.
- Helping to build homes fosters neighborhood pride and a sense of accomplishment and ownership.
- Buyers have the opportunity to meet their neighbors before closing.
- Sweat equity helps buyers build skills and knowledge to assist with future home maintenance and repairs.
- Accommodations are available for buyers who require special consideration.
Mortgage Financing
All buyers apply for select mortgage loans with Habitat's assistance. Habitat buyers utilize third-party mortgage loans through programs such as USDA Rural Development or FAHE JustChoice Lending. Homes are purchased using the affordable mortgage loan for which each buyer is approved. Habitat cannot sell a home to anyone who does not qualify for an affordable home loan.
To make each home as affordable as possible, Habitat uses a combination of affordable third-party mortgages, grants, and Habitat subordinate loans. Habitat defines affordability as housing costs equal to 21-25% of the buyer's gross monthly income.
Habitat Home Design
Habitat builds high-quality homes while keeping each buyer's needs in mind. While Habitat is not a custom home builder, we are committed to providing safe, decent, and affordable housing. Home design may be influenced by the characteristics of the lot and the surrounding community.
