Habitat for Humanity Opens Housing Application

Habitat for Humanity of Martha's Vineyard together with the Dukes County Regional Housing Authority have opened an affordable housing application process for those interested and qualified. HabitatMV, together with the selected family will partner to build a two-bedroom home during the summer and fall of 2012.

Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• First-Time homeowner, year-round Martha’s Vineyard resident with need for long-term stable, affordable housing.
•  Must have a maximum family income of $5,767 per month or $69,200 per year, which is 80% of the 2011 Median Income for Dukes County (based on a family of four and is higher or lower depending on actual family size).
•  Must have a minimum family income of $2,167 per month or $26,000 per year, which is 30% of the 2011 Median Income for Dukes County (based on a family of four and is higher or lower depending on actual family size).
•  Must not have debts in excessof 45% of total income.
•  Must be able to pay a 2% deposit prior to and fees at time of closing.
•  Do not have the financial means to purchase a house with a conventional mortgage.
•  Have the ability to meet the financial obligations of owning a home.
•  Must successfully complete a mortgage application and interview process, including reference checks, income verification, CORI (Criminal Offenders Record Information) report authorization, and credit check authorization.
•  Must be able to document a history of stable income and financial responsibility.
•  Willingness to partner with HabitatMV by working 350-500 “SweatEquity” hours.
• Applicants are encouraged to attend a First-Time Homeowner’s Seminar. Habitat for Humanity of Martha’s Vineyard will host a First-Time Homeowner’s Seminar scheduled for Saturday, March 31, 2012 from 9:00 to 11:00 am at the Howes House in West Tisbury across from Alley’s.
• Application packets are available at the Vineyard Housing Office at 346 State Road Vineyard Haven or on- line at www.habitatmv.org click-on “Apply for a Home”.
• Application Deadline is Thursday, April 12, 2012 at 5:00PM
•  All may apply – families with a Martha’s Vineyard connection: residency, employment and/or children in Martha’s Vineyard Schools will receive priority to the extent permitted by law.

Information taken from a Habitat for Humanity Press Release