How to Apply to Become a Habitat Homeowner

Partnering with Northwoods Habitat for Humanity for Safe, Affordable Housing

At Northwoods Habitat for Humanity, we believe that everyone deserves a safe, decent, and affordable place to call home. We partner with individuals and families in Beltrami and Clearwater Counties to build homes, community, and hope.

If you or someone you know is living in inadequate housing and looking for a long-term solution, you may be eligible to become a Habitat homeowner. Here's a step-by-step look at what it takes to apply and begin your journey toward homeownership with Habitat for Humanity. Our staff verifies that all documentation is submitted with the completed application.

Step 1: Understand Our Mission

Habitat for Humanity does not give away homes. Instead, we work in partnership with qualified applicants to build or renovate simple, decent homes that are sold to families at an affordable cost. Homebuyers repay an affordable mortgage, contribute sweat equity hours, and commit to being active partners throughout the process.

Step 2: Determine if You Meet the Qualification Criteria

We consider three key areas when reviewing applications:

1. Housing Need - You may qualify if your current living situation is:

   • Sub-standard, overcrowded, or unsafe

   • A financial burden (i.e., you pay more than 30% of your income on housing)

   • Inadequate for the physical needs of your family members

   • Temporary or subsidized

   • Unavailable through conventional financing
     

2. Ability to Pay - We want to ensure you’ll be successful in homeownership. To qualify:

   • Your income must fall between 50% and 80% of HUD’s Section 8 income limits for Beltrami County

   • You must have verifiable income that is adequate to cover all living and mortgage expenses

   • Your debt-to-income ratio must be reasonable

   • You must have an acceptable credit history
     

3. Willingness to Partner - Each adult in the household must:

   • Contribute 300 hours of sweat equity

   • Complete the Home Stretch Program before purchase

   • Participate actively with Habitat staff, volunteers, and community members

   • Agree to maintain the home and property (inside and out)

   • Submit annual income documentation (including tax returns)

   • Pay monthly mortgage payments in full and on time

   • Be a positive ambassador for Habitat for Humanity in the community

Step 3: Submit an Application

If you believe you meet the qualifications, we invite you to setup a time to come and chat!

Applications are available for download on our website at

👉 habitatbemidji.org

or can be picked up in person at:

📍1357 Exchange Ave SE, Bemidji, MN 56601

Step 4: Prepare Your Application Materials

Your application packet should include:

• A cover letter explaining your current situation and why you are applying

• A completed income and debt worksheet

• Completed application forms (household info, housing conditions, employment, etc.)

• Three letters of support

• Most recent federal tax return

• Three months of pay stubs

• Original Social Security award letter (if applicable)

• Copy of your driver’s license or state ID

• A home loan denial letter from a traditional lender

• Signed Borrower’s Certification and Authorization

• Data Privacy Notice and ECOA Notice

We know this process can feel overwhelming—but you're not alone! Our staff is happy to assist with gathering paperwork or walking through the steps. Call us at 218-751-4649 to schedule an appointment for help.

Step 5: Review and Home Visit

After we receive your completed application:

1. Our staff verifies housing conditions, income, employment, and other documentation.

2. Your application is then forwarded to our Family Selection Committee, made up of community members and Habitat homeowners who have walked this path before.

3. The committee will schedule a home visit to better understand your current living situation and your need for safe, affordable housing.

4. Based on their review, the committee makes a recommendation to our Board of Directors, who will make the final decision on acceptance into the program.

Step 6: Begin Your Journey

If selected, you’ll be welcomed into the Habitat program and begin the exciting journey toward building your future home—alongside volunteers, community members, and staff who are cheering you on every step of the way.

In a future blog post, we’ll dive into what happens after you're accepted—what the build process looks like, how sweat equity hours are earned, and how homeownership becomes a reality.

Until then, if you think Habitat might be a good fit for you or someone you know, don’t wait. Reach out. Apply. We’re here to help you build a better future.

🛠️ Questions?

Call us at 218-751-4649 or visit www.habitatbemidji.org

Together, we build more than houses—we build hope.