Applying for Housing
Build Your Future with Habitat of Burke County
At Habitat for Humanity of Burke County, we believe that a safe, affordable home is more than shelter — it’s the foundation for financial security, and lasting stability. Through our affordable homeownership program, we partner with individuals and families to open doors to new opportunities, helping them lay down roots and invest in a future full of possibility.
Applications open July 15th! Please give us a call at (828) 437-0370 to schedule your appointment.
What It Takes to Become a Habitat Homeowner
Residency — You must currently live in Burke County.
Need — You must live in substandard, unsafe, or overcrowded housing conditions.
Ability to Pay — You need to have enough steady income to afford a monthly house payment, but not enough to qualify for a traditional mortgage on your own. Income must be verifiable, and applicants should have a reasonable credit history.
Willingness to Partner — You must be willing to help build your own home and the homes of others by completing required sweat equity hours.
What You’ll Need to Provide:
A valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.)
Proof of household income — such as recent pay stubs, SSI or disability statements, child support documentation, etc.
How This Program Works
At Habitat of Burke County, we work side by side with local individuals and families who need a safe, reliable place to call home. We build affordable houses with two to four bedrooms and make them affordable through a low-cost mortgage with no added profit.
How to Qualify
To become a Habitat of Burke County homeowner, there are three key things we look for:
- A genuine need for safe and reliable housing.
- Enough steady income to afford affordable mortgage payments.
- Commitment to work alongside us by helping build your home and supporting other Habitat families.
All applications are reviewed by our Homeowner Selection Committee. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, family status, national origin, age, whether income comes from public assistance, or whether you’ve exercised your rights under the Consumer Credit Protection Act. Everyone deserves a fair chance to build a better life.
Applying for Housing FAQs
Sweat equity is the time and effort you put in to help build your own home and support Habitat’s work in the community. It’s not money — it’s your hands-on investment in your future. Sweat equity can include working on your house or another family’s house, helping at the Habitat ReStore, joining homeowner classes, or pitching in with other tasks that help bring safe, affordable housing to Burke County.
Habitat of Burke County builds homes thanks to mortgage payments from current homeowners, generous donations, grants, and support from local churches, businesses, and community groups. We also raise funds through our Habitat ReStore.
Click here to donate!
On average, it takes about 12 to 18 months for a family to move in after being accepted. The timeline can vary based on the season, construction schedule, and how quickly you complete your sweat equity hours.
Habitat of Burke County builds simple, affordable homes designed to be easy to maintain and affordable to live in. Most homes have durable vinyl floors, carpet and come with new appliances like a washer and dryer, refrigerator, and range — helping you move in ready to go.
Once you move in, you’re responsible for paying your mortgage each month, caring for your home and yard, and being a respectful neighbor. Your mortgage payments cover your loan plus property taxes and homeowners insurance.
Habitat of Burke County continues to support homeowners even after they move in, working alongside families to help them succeed and thrive as long-term homeowners.