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Pros and Cons of Single-Family Home Ownership vs Alternatives

In the modern world, there are many options for family dwellings. Single-family homes, apartments, and duplex buildings are some examples of affordable homes. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages to be considered. 

Single-family homes are defined below; common experiences with this housing type are highlighted, plus different options.

What is a Single- Family Home?

A single-family detached residence where one family lives during a timeframe is considered a single-family home. These types of structures do not share architecture, utilities, heating or air conditioning systems with any other residences. Entrances and exits are private, with direct access to the public street.

Pros: Single-Family Home

  Space. After buying a home, many notice inside space is frequently more generous and efficiently designed, and outside space is much more accessible.

  Control. Homeowners are the decision makers of the house, and do not have to await approval from landlords. Also, there is no apprehension of increases in rent or surprise fees.

  Privacy. Sharing walls with only your family means less unsolicited information about the neighbors, as well as peace and quiet on demand.

  Personal Amenities. No more waiting for the washing machine among other tenants or having a designated shelf in the refrigerator with roommates.

  Learning Tool. Homeownership is an excellent opportunity to demonstrate financial skills and accountable decision-making to children.

Cons: Single- Family Home

  Extra Responsibility. Keeping an eye out for damages as well as formulating a typical maintenance schedule are the sole responsibility of the homeowner, who must be mindful of the associated costs of upkeep.

  Property tax. This financial aspect is something all homeowners face. This tax is calculated by local government and is based on the value of the owned property, including land. Amounts vary from year to year, as well as interest rates.

  Sense of Permanence. For those in a transitional stage, being tied to a solid foundation is not ideal. Deciding to put down roots is an important choice to be made with the whole family at the right time.

Pros & Cons of Other Types of Housing

Apartment or condo: generally no property maintenance; do have shared walls, ceilings, and floors.

Townhouse or duplex: less noise than apartments or condos; still have mutual walls.

Manufactured/mobile home: ability to have detached walls; often restricted to specific communities.

All Homes Come with Pros & Cons

Just with all major decisions, no homeownership option is without its own advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, choosing what is best for you and your family is highly personal. 

Looking for more information about affordable homeownership? Here are two blogs about more hidden benefits of single-family home ownership: Creating a Foundation for Success and Homeownership and Mental Health.

Creating a Foundation for Success at Home

The Role of a Home Study Space in Academic Achievement

As the school bells ring and children eagerly return to classrooms, there is an important element that significantly impacts their academic journey – a dedicated place to study at home. Research has shown that having a conducive environment for studying not only boosts academic performance but also nurtures a lifelong love for learning. 

At Houston Habitat for Humanity, we recognize the vital importance of providing children with a nurturing space to study, grow, and succeed academically.

The Link Between Home Study Spaces and Academic Success:

Recent studies, such as the evidence brief titled “How does Housing Affect Children’s Education?” highlight the direct correlation between a stable home environment and academic achievement. A designated study spot at home offers several advantages:

Focused Learning: A quiet and organized space allows students to concentrate on their studies, reducing distractions and increasing their ability to retain information.

Consistent Routine: A dedicated study space helps establish a consistent study routine, enhancing time management skills and promoting effective study habits.

Boosting Confidence: Having a place to study instills a sense of ownership and responsibility in children, boosting their confidence and motivation to excel.

Supporting Educational Goals: A nurturing home environment, including a study area or study room, reinforces the importance of education and encourages children to set and achieve academic goals.

Houston Habitat’s Commitment to Academic Excellence:

At Houston Habitat for Humanity, we go beyond providing affordable homes; we create spaces where children can thrive academically. We understand that a stable home is the cornerstone of a child’s education. By offering families safe and comfortable housing, we ensure that children have the opportunity to flourish in their studies. We take pride in being a part of the academic success stories that unfold within the walls of the homes we build.

How Houston Habitat Makes a Difference at Home:

Through our housing initiatives, Houston Habitat provides families with the foundation they need to create a nurturing study environment. We design homes with ample space for a designated study area, ensuring that children have a place to read, learn, and explore. Our commitment to affordable housing extends beyond the physical structure – it encompasses the holistic well-being of each family member, especially children.

As children embark on a new academic year, let us remember that a place to study at home is more than just a desk and chair; it is a catalyst for academic achievement and a future full of possibilities. Houston Habitat for Humanity remains dedicated to building not only houses but also the dreams and aspirations of our community’s youth. Together, we create an environment where children can thrive academically, setting the stage for a brighter, more prosperous future.

Ready to witness the transformative power of a Houston Habitat home? Embark on a virtual journey through our homes by visiting our Houston Virtual Home Tours page.

Celebrating Homeownership Month

June is National Homeownership Month, a time to recognize the importance of homeownership and the positive impact it has on individuals, families, and communities. At Houston Habitat for Humanity, we believe that everyone deserves a safe, decent, and affordable place to call home. Join us in celebrating this month as we highlight ways you can get involved with our mission.

Getting Involved with Houston Habitat:

Houston Habitat for Humanity offers various ways for individuals like you to make a difference and contribute to our mission of affordable housing. Here’s how you can get involved:

  1. Volunteer: Roll up your sleeves and join us at our ReStore locations or community gardens. Your time and effort will directly impact the lives of Houston families.
  2. Become a Monthly Donor: By becoming a monthly donor, you provide a consistent and reliable source of support that enables us to continue building safe, decent, and affordable homes. Even a small monthly contribution can make a significant difference in the lives of those we serve.
  3. Share Our Mission: Help us spread the word about Houston Habitat for Humanity and the importance of affordable housing. Share our website, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and share our success stories with your friends, family, and colleagues. Your advocacy and support can inspire others to join our cause.
  4. Attend Homeownership Information Sessions and take our eligibility quiz: Stay informed about our homeownership program by attending our information sessions on real estate for homebuyers. Learn about eligibility and qualifications on how you can become a homeowner.
  5. Advocate for Affordable Housing: Use your voice to advocate for policies and initiatives that promote affordable housing solutions. Reach out to your local representatives, engage in community conversations, and support organizations working towards creating housing opportunities for all.

Homeownership Month is a time to reflect on the power of Houston homeownership and the positive change it brings to individuals, families, and communities. Join us in celebrating this month by getting involved with Houston Habitat for Humanity. Together, we can make a lasting impact and create a world where everyone has a place to call home.

Join Houston Habitat for Humanity today, share these options in your network, and be part of the solution.

Homeownership and Mental Health

May is Mental Health Awareness month, a time to raise awareness and support for mental well-being. At Houston Habitat for Humanity, we recognize the profound impact that homeownership can have on mental health. In this blog, we explore the link between homeownership and mental well-being. We use research and evidence based studies to highlight the power of having a place to call home to improve and change lives.

Stability and Mental Well-Being:

  • Homeownership provides stability, which is crucial for daily mental well-being. According to an evidence brief by Habitat for Humanity, stable housing is associated with reduced psychological distress and improved mental health outcomes. Having a secure and permanent place to live allows individuals and families to establish roots and permanence. This stability fosters a sense of security that positively impacts mental health.

Sense of Belonging and Community:

  • Homeownership cultivates a sense of belonging and community, contributing to mental well-being. Research suggests homeowners are more likely to engage in community activities, establish social connections, and develop supportive relationships with their neighbors. This sense of belonging and social integration provides a vital support system for individuals and families. Feelings of isolation are reduced which promotes positive mental health. Homeowners are more than twice as likely to join a neighborhood group than renters.

Empowerment and Self-Esteem:

  • The process of becoming a homeowner can empower individuals, leading to improved self-esteem and mental well-being. Taking control of one’s living situation, making decisions about their home, and building equity (wealth) can have a transformative effect on individuals and families. Homeownership programs foster a sense of pride, accomplishment, and empowerment, contributing to positive mental health outcomes. 

Financial Security and Reduced Stress:

  • Achieving homeownership provides a foundation for long-term financial security, reducing stress and anxiety. Stable housing with manageable mortgage payments allows individuals and families to focus on other aspects of their lives, without the constant worry of housing instability. This financial security positively impacts mental health, leading to reduced levels of depression and improved overall well-being. A reduction in stress can even improve physical health.

Home buyers applying to Houston Habitat’s program not only offers the opportunity for safe and affordable homeownership but also has the potential to positively impact one’s mental health. We recognize and prioritize the mental well-being of our homeowners, as we believe that a stable and supportive home environment contributes to overall happiness and personal growth.

Sources:

Spring is the perfect time to start deep cleaning in your home! Check out our Top Five tips to tackle cleaning for the new season

Spring is here, and that means it’s time for some deep cleaning around the house! Whether you’re a homeowner or a renter, these top five spring cleaning tips will help you get your home in tip-top shape.

Declutter

One of the best ways to get your home ready for spring is to declutter. Go through your closets, drawers, and cabinets and get rid of anything you no longer need or use. Donate clothes and household items to a local thrift store or charity organization. 

To make the process less overwhelming, The Spruce recommends making a “declutter your home checklist” to prioritize. “Focus on one room such as the kitchen, or even one zone within a room (e.g., kitchen cabinets), at a time.”

Deep Clean

Once you’ve decluttered, it’s time to deep clean. Grab some cloths or wipes and clean every nook and cranny of your home, including baseboards, windows, and appliances. Don’t forget to dust and vacuum all the areas that tend to get neglected, such as your ceiling fan. 

According to HouseDigest.com, “cleaning your fan’s blades is important because, if not dusted regularly, your fan could circulate lots of dust in the air, which could worsen allergies.” Soapy water is typically safe for ceiling fans and will reduce dust and dander. 

Refresh Bedding and Linens

Spring is a great time to refresh your bedding and linens and put away Winter layers. Wash your comforter, pillows, and sheets, and replace any old or worn-out items. 

Ikea.com suggests choosing “cooler duvets for the spring season and creating a tropical paradise by dressing your bed in bright, colorful textiles and letting in some natural light” for the new season.

Organize Your Home Office

If you work from home or have a home office, spring is the perfect time to organize your workspace. Sort through paperwork, get rid of unnecessary items, and invest in some organizational tools to make your workspace more efficient. 

According to HGTV, “a well-organized filing system is a good indication of a functional office space. To organize, separate the filing system into five color-coded categories, and label each hanging folder according to your needs.”

Spring Cleaning checklists for the office will often include going through old paperwork and choosing outdated or unimportant documents to shred. If you don’t have a home paper shredder, find a “shred day” near you offered by a local company. 

Get Your Outdoor Space Ready

Finally, don’t forget about your outdoor space! Clean up your yard, patio, and grill, and get ready for spring and summer entertaining. 

Better Homes & Gardens recommends using “outdoor spray enamel to touch up chips on painted outdoor furniture.” to give your patio furniture a nice refresh. In addition to this, planting some flowers or herbs can add a pop of color to your outdoor space. 

Now that you have some top spring cleaning tips, it’s time to get to work! And if you have any items to donate, consider giving them to the Houston Habitat for Humanity ReStores

The ReStores accept donations of gently used furniture, appliances and more and sell them to the public at a discounted price. This helps to support Houston Habitat’s mission of providing safe and affordable housing to families in need. Happy spring cleaning!

Sources:
How to Declutter Your Home: 6 Best Room-by-Room Methods, TheSpruce.com
30 Places In Your Home You Are Forgetting to Clean, HouseDigest.com
Ideas for a Spring Bedroom Refresh, Ikea.com 
10 Office Home Hacks to Get You Organized Now, HGTV.com
Spring Cleaning Checklist: The Ultimate Guide to a Tidier Home, Better Homes & Gardens

Homeownership Impacts Women in Houston

More women own homes than ever before

In much of the U.S., single women are outpacing single men when it comes to homeownership. This may be somewhat surprising, given that women in the U.S. make an average of 81 cents for every dollar men earn, according to PayScale.

Nonetheless, U.S. Census Bureau data analyzed by LendingTree shows that single women are more likely than single men to own a home in each of the nation’s 50 largest metros.

In total, single women own nearly 1.6 million more homes than single men do in America’s 50 largest metros. Single women own about 5.2 million homes, while single men own about 3.6 million homes.

There isn’t a single metro among the largest 50 where single men own more homes than single women. The average difference between the share of homes that single women own compared to single men is 3.7 percent.

Why it’s harder for women to own homes than men 

  • On average, women earn less than men working in year-round, full-time positions: A 2022 Zillow study found that women have access to “18 percent less of the real estate market than men because of the wage gap: In other words, they could buy nearly one-fifth more of the available homes (and presumably, higher-priced homes) if they made as much money as their male counterparts.”
  • Women face higher mortgage denials and mortgage rates: When women do manage to buy a home, they typically make smaller down payments and take out bigger mortgages, meaning they start out with less of an ownership stake than single men do. “Single women, low-to-middle income women and over-65 women — especially those residing in certain neighborhoods — have been ‘steered toward subprime loans even when they could have qualified for prime loans.’ The higher interest rates, fees and penalties of these loans make it more likely for female homeowners to fall into ever-tightening debt traps and foreclosure.”
  • The values of women-owned homes appreciate slower: According to Habitat for Humanity International, “for an average home worth $200,000 held for five years, a 2 percent difference in purchase and sale price translates to single women losing approximately $1,600 per year relative to single men.” Single women also pay “approximately 1-2 percent more for comparable properties than single men, and then sell these homes for 2-3 percent less. 

How homeownership benefits women and their families

Homeownership improves school performance, decreases crime, and enhances the health and well-being of children, as well as adults. An evidence brief done by Habitat for Humanity International shows: 

  • Stable home environments raise young children’s math and reading test scores, making affordable homeownership a conduit for greater residential stability.
  • Removing hazards and providing homes that meet families’ needs leads to better physical and mental health and development for children.
  • Studies have demonstrated that families who receive subsidized housing but can choose which neighborhood to live in have children who attend schools with higher attendance rates, graduation rates, and reading and math proficiency rates, along with lower dropout and violence rates.  

Why women’s homeownership is increasing 

The increased educational gains of women who are heads of households is reflected in their higher homeownership rates. 

Women who are heads of household with bachelor’s degrees have a homeownership rate of 35 percent, compared to 37 percent for men with bachelor’s degrees – a difference of 2 percentage points. This indicates that women who are heads of household with a college degree are more likely to be homeowners than their male counterparts. Over the last 30 years, women as heads of household with a bachelor’s degrees increased by 17 percent, nearly catching up with men. 

The higher educational attainment and homeownership rates for women who are heads of households reflect their increased financial security and independence. With higher educational attainment comes better job opportunities, higher wages, and more financial stability. This in turn leads to higher homeownership rates, as women are able to purchase homes and build equity, creating a more secure financial future.

“Women have a very strong preference for homeownership,” Jessica Lautz, the National Association of Realtor’s deputy chief economist and vice president of research says. “They think it’s a good financial investment. They also are willing to make financial sacrifices. They traditionally have a lower household income, and they’re willing to cut expenses in other areas of their life to achieve homeownership.”

How Habitat Contributes to Women Homeownership 

  • Habitat homes are priced at fair market value, which is the price of the home if it were sold under prevailing market conditions, and are not subject to the negotiating ability of the homebuyer or any implicit bias or prejudice on the part of their real estate agent. 
  • Mortgage payments for Habitat homes are kept at 30% of the homeowner’s monthly income, independent of home value or financing terms. This model ensures that Habitat homes are affordable regardless of gender and protects women from paying higher costs for their homes. 
  • Consequently, Habitat homeowners, most of whom are female, do not start their homeownership journey at a deficit and instead are able to begin accruing equity immediately upon purchasing their home.

Sources: 
Homeownership Gender Gap: Single Women Own More Homes Than Single Men, LendingTree.com
The Housing Gender Gap: Why Women still face Roadblocks in homeownership, home equity and home values, Bankrate.com
Domino Effect: Gender Pay Gap Has Implications for Women Home Buyers, Zillow.com
How does Homeownership Contribute to Wealth Building?, Habitat for Humanity International
How does Housing Affect Children’s Education?, Habitat for Humanity International
More Women Have Become Homeowners and Heads of Household. Could the Pandemic Undo That Progress?, Urban Institute
The number of single women homeowners continues to surpass the number of single men homeowners, Bankrate.com

Interested in having a home to call your own and building generational wealth for your family? Take our eligibility quiz to find out if you qualify for Houston Habitat’s homeownership program.

Estado actual de la vivienda asequible en Houston: lo que necesita saber

Según la Encuesta del área de Houston en el Instituto Kinder de 2022, el costo de vida, incluidos los costos de vivienda y gasolina, es el mayor problema que enfrentan las personas en Houston.

Aumentan los costos de las viviendas asequibles

Si bien los precios de la vivienda también subieron en casi todas partes, este es un indicador económico que tiene un alcance más local. En el área de Houston, un nuevo índice de asequibilidad de la Asociación de Agentes Inmobiliarios de Houston encontró que los precios de venta promedio aumentaron $80,000 en el último año. En ese nivel, los potenciales compradores de vivienda necesitarían ganar casi un 27 % más de ingresos este año que el año pasado para poder pagar la vivienda a un precio promedio en el mercado.

Esto sigue una tendencia que el Instituto Kinder ha estado explorando en sus informes sobre el estado de la vivienda, que demuestran que la propiedad de vivienda se aleja cada vez más del alcance de la población de inquilinos del condado cada año. Mientras tanto, los alquileres en Houston han aumentado un 23 % en los últimos siete años, lo que ha erosionado la capacidad de acumular los ahorros necesarios para hacer el pago inicial.

La creciente demanda de viviendas unifamiliares y la caída en pico de los suministros han llevado a aumentos históricos de precios en Houston y el condado de Harris, un hecho bien conocido por cualquiera que haya intentado comprar una casa aquí el año pasado.

Tipos de oportunidades de vivienda asequible en Houston

Los precios de alquiler también están aumentando. Además, la región experimenta un nivel de sobrepoblación, que probablemente sea el resultado de tener una cantidad insuficiente de unidades de alquiler asequibles en el mercado. El condado simplemente tiene muy pocas unidades disponibles para las personas que ganan por debajo del ingreso familiar promedio. Según las estimaciones del estudio My Home is Here, el condado de Harris necesita construir casi 150,000 unidades más que sean asequibles para los hogares con ingresos más bajos.

 Hábitat para la Humanidad de Houston está respondiendo al continuar con sus más de 30 años de construir viviendas asequibles y asociarse con familias de bajos ingresos para ayudarlas a lograr ser propietarios de una vivienda. Hemos construido más de 1,100 viviendas en 14 vecindarios de Houston, incluidos los cuadrantes Fifth Ward y Northeast y sureste.

Satisfaciendo la demanda de la comunidad para proveer viviendas asequibles

Hábitat para la Humanidad de Houston está en el proceso de desarrollar Robins Landing, una nueva comunidad vibrante, de ingresos mixtos y diseñada según el plano directriz en un extenso terreno de 127 acres en el noreste de Houston.

Obtenga más información sobre los programas de propiedad de vivienda de Hábitat de Houston.

Lea la encuesta completa del área de Houston del Instituto Kinder de 2022

Fuentes:

La asequibilidad de la vivienda en Houston disminuye con los precios altísimos, HAR.com

Informe sobre el estado de la vivienda de 2022, Rice Kinder Institute for Urban Research

El alquiler de Houston aumenta un 23 % en siete años, ABC/KTRH

Estudio Mi Hogar Está Aquí, Encuesta de Vivienda del Condado de Harris

Current State of Affordable Housing in Houston: What You Need to Know

According to the 2022 Kinder Institute Houston Area Survey, the cost of living—including housing and gasoline costs— are the biggest problem facing people in the Houston. 

Rising Costs of Affordable Homes

While housing prices are also up just about everywhere, this is one economic indicator that is more local in scope. In the Houston area, a new affordability index by the Houston Association of Realtors found median sales prices have risen $80,000 in the past year. At that level, homebuyers would need to earn almost 27% more income this year than they did last year to afford the median-priced home on the market. 

This tracks with a trend the Kinder Institute has been exploring in its State of Housing reports, which demonstrate that homeownership slips further out of reach of the county’s renter population every year. Meanwhile, rents in Houston have risen 23% in the past seven years, eroding the ability to build up the savings needed to make a down payment. 

The surging demand for single-family homes and plummeting supplies have led to historic price increases in Houston and Harris County—a well-known fact for anyone who tried to buy a home here in the past year.

Types of Affordable Housing Opportunities in Houston

Rental home prices are also rising. The region is also seeing more overcrowding, which is a likely outcome of having an insufficient number of affordable rental units on the market. The county simply has far too few units available for people earning below median household incomes. Based on estimates in the My Home is Here study, Harris County needs to build almost 150,000 more units that are affordable to the lowest-earning households.

Houston Habitat for Humanity is responding by continuing its 30+ years of building affordable housing and partnering with low-income families to help them achieve homeownership. We have built more than 1,100 homes in 14 Houston neighborhoods, including the Fifth Ward and Northeast and southeast quadrants. Currently we are building homes in our Acorn Glen neighborhood, having already served multiple families through this program. 

Fulfillling Demand for Affordable Housing Community

Houston Habitat for Humanity is in the process of developing Robins Landing, a new mixed-income, master-planned community on a sprawling 127 acre tract in Northeast Houston. 

Robins Landing will provide up to 500 units of multifamily and senior housing. It will also provide 468 affordable, single family homes for low-income Houstonians. The demographics of these new homeowners is expected to be consistent with the census tract- 97% minority, including 64% Black, helping Black families achieve homeownership, and addressing racial inequity.

Learn more about Houston Habitat Homeownership programs.

Read the full 2022 Kinder Institute Houston Area Survey

Sources: 

Houston Housing Affordability Declines with Soaring Prices, HAR.com

2022 State of Housing Report, Rice Kinder Institute for Urban Research

Houston Rent Rises 23% in seven years, ABC/KTRH

My Home is Here Study, Harris County Housing Survey

¿No tienes historia crediticia? Aquí te explicamos por qué necesitas establecer una buena historia crediticia si quieres comprar una casa

Una casa es el gasto más grande que hacemos. A menudo representa una gran cantidad de dinero que tomamos prestado de un banco y que tardamos décadas en terminar de pagar.

Tu calificación crediticia es parte de la información utilizada por los prestamistas para calificar el préstamo y la tasa de interés. Si tu calificación crediticia es baja, puede afectar tu capacidad de calificar para un préstamo. Además de un mal crédito, una historia limitada de crédito establecido puede dar como resultado una baja calificación crediticia.

¿Cómo se determina tu Calificación Crediticia?

Cuando solicitas un crédito hipotecario, los prestamistas quieren saber cuál es el riesgo que toman al prestarte dinero. Para evaluar este riesgo, los prestamistas a menudo obtienen un reporte de crédito y una calificación crediticia. Las calificaciones crediticias más usadas son los Puntajes FICO®. Los Puntajes FICO® ofrecen una forma, sin prejuicios y probada, de evaluar el riesgo crediticio de un consumidor — lo que ayuda a los consumidores a obtener el crédito más rápidamente y de manera más justa.

Esto es lo que determina tu calificación de crédito:

  1. Historial de pagos: si has pagado tus cuentas de crédito a tiempo
  2. Cantidades adeudadas: la cantidad de crédito y préstamos que estás usando
  3. Duración de la historia de crédito: por cuánto tiempo has tenido crédito
  4. Nuevo crédito: frecuencia de las consultas de crédito y de apertura de nuevas cuentas
  5. Combinación del crédito: la combinación de tu crédito, cuentas con tiendas departamentales, préstamos a plazos, cuentas con compañías financieras y créditos hipotecarios

Hay tres oficinas de crédito importantes, que son Equifax, Experian y TransUnion. Ellas tienen tu información de crédito. Cuando obtienes un nuevo préstamo, haces los pagos para tus préstamos o te atrasas con ellos, o usas una tarjeta de crédito, es común que tu prestamista reporte esta información a las oficinas de crédito. La información almacenada en las oficinas de crédito se representa en tus reportes de crédito. Tus reportes de crédito contienen información sobre tu historial de crédito, lo que incluye préstamos, tarjetas de crédito, consultas y más.

Yo pago mis cuentas en efectivo y no uso tarjetas de crédito. ¿Cómo afecta esto a mi calificación crediticia?

Este es un problema para muchas personas que quieren comprar una casa. Debido a que pagan en efectivo, es posible que no hayan establecido crédito, o tengan crédito insuficiente, o no cuenten con una calificación crediticia o tengan un puntaje de crédito bajo.

Si esto es similar a tu situación, no estás solo. Se estima que 53 millones de personas son “invisibles al crédito”, lo que significa que no tienen un expediente en una de las oficinas de crédito, o que su expediente es insuficiente para que se les otorgue una calificación. A menudo esto es el resultado de no tener una historia de uso de una tarjeta de crédito o de un préstamo tradicional. Como resultado, es posible que tengas un riesgo más alto de recibir préstamos predatorios, y que virtualmente quedes impedido de las oportunidades económicas para la propiedad de vivienda. Entre más bajo sea tu puntaje de crédito, más alto es el riesgo, lo que puede afectar tu pago mensual del crédito hipotecario.

¿Cómo puede ayudar Houston Hábitat?

Está creciendo el interés en iniciativas que permitan a los consumidores incluir en la calificación de crédito y en las evaluaciones para los préstamos su historial de pagos puntuales de la renta o de otras obligaciones financieras. El reporte de pagos de la renta está surgiendo como el enfoque principal en estas reformas, ya que las investigaciones han demostrado que es un fuerte indicador de la habilidad futura del arrendatario para hacer los pagos a su crédito hipotecario. Otras prometedoras fuentes de datos incluyen pagos de los servicios públicos, pagos de cable y de teléfono celular, así como estados de cuenta bancarios que demuestren el flujo de efectivo. Al otorgar una imagen más completa de tu historial de responsabilidad financiera, esto puede reducir la “invisibilidad crediticia” y ampliar el acceso a un crédito seguro y asequible.

Houston Hábitat trabajará contigo para verificar el crédito a través de documentos no tradicionales de crédito o cartas de recomendación de los acreedores que típicamente no reportan a las oficinas de crédito. Estos “otros” acreedores pueden incluir la renta, el seguro del carro, las facturas de servicios públicos, negocios locales y gastos médicos. Te ayudamos a determinar tu actual calificación crediticia y observar tu historia crediticia completo en lugar de solo una calificación crediticia y trabajamos duro para no rechazar a solicitantes en nuestro programa solo con base en su calificación crediticia.

Fuentes:
Inclusive Credit Scoring (“Calificación Crediticia Inclusiva”), 25 de enero de 2022, Houston Habitat International
Educación sobre el Puntaje Fico, FicoScore.com

Hábitat para la Humanidad de Houston comprometido con viviendas asequibles para Afroamericanos, hispanos y personas de color

Familias de todo Estados Unidos se esfuerzan para poder pagar un hogar. A todos lados donde miras — ciudades, suburbios, áreas rurales — la estabilidad que un hogar debe brindar permanece fuera del alcance de muchas personas.

En Hábitat para la Humanidad de Houston, sabemos que una familia nunca debería tener que gastar más del 30 % de sus ingresos en una casa. Pero hay que tener en cuenta que incluso antes de la pandemia con el coronavirus, más de 18 millones de hogares estadounidenses pagaban la mitad o más de sus ingresos en un lugar para vivir.

De acuerdo con la Encuesta en el área Kinder de Houston en 2022, una cuarta parte de los habitantes de Houston tienen dificultades para pagar su hipoteca o alquiler. Para los afroamericanos, ese número es de alrededor del 40%. Para los hispanos es del 37 % y para los blancos es del 17 %, ambos aumentando significativamente durante el último año. Asimismo, la proporción de personas que no pudieron cubrir una emergencia de $400 fue notablemente más alta entre estos grupos que entre los blancos y los asiáticos.

Ahora, mientras los impactos económicos de la pandemia siguen causando estragos, millones de familias corren el riesgo de perder sus hogares. Esto es especialmente cierto para los afroamericanos y otras personas de color que se vieron afectados de manera desproporcionada por las consecuencias económicas de la crisis y que ahora enfrentan costos de vivienda menos asequibles en condiciones inseguras. Esto es inaceptabl

La brecha racial en la propiedad de la vivienda

Existe un patrón histórico bien documentado de discriminación racial en las políticas de vivienda y uso de la tierra, —en todos los niveles de gobierno—, y que aún afecta la composición y las oportunidades de nuestras comunidades. Los solicitantes de hipotecas hispanos y afroamericanos enfrentan tasas de interés más altas y negativas en propiedades de menor valor. Y a pesar de los desafíos en el mercado hipotecario, los residentes hispanos pronto se convertirán en la mayor parte de los compradores de vivienda en el condado. Los hispanos son grupo racial/étnico importante con una tasa creciente de propiedad de vivienda tanto en Houston como en los EE. UU. entre 2020 y 2021.

Habitat para la Humanidad de Houston sirve a una amplia gama de propietarios de viviendas. Brindamos un acceso más equitativo a financiamiento de bajo costo que puede ayudar a respaldar la creación de valor en la vivienda. Las hipotecas para todos los propietarios de viviendas de Habitat para la Humanidad de Houston, independientemente de su raza, tienen un precio asequible, con pagos mensuales que se mantienen al 30% o menos de los ingresos. Los afiliados de Habitat para la Humanidad de Houston pueden crear opciones de financiamiento únicas que satisfagan las necesidades de todos sus compradores de viviendas.

Habitat para la Humanidad de Houston brinda oportunidades de propiedad de vivienda que son accesibles para los compradores con bajos ingresos que de otra manera no podrían acceder a un hogar. Esto incluye hipotecas de bajo pago inicial que están diseñadas para funcionar incluso para propietarios de viviendas que carecen de un crédito impecable, ayudando así a aquellos compradores que no pueden obtener productos de préstamos tradicionales.

Los habitantes de Houston tienen una visión realista de estas disparidades raciales bien documentadas. Reconocemos que puede ser difícil corregir el sesgo racial en las evaluaciones para viviendas y los préstamos hipotecarios, así como la falta de oportunidades en la recuperación de desastres locales.

Aumentando la oferta y la preservación de viviendas asequibles

Casi todas las áreas de los EE. UU. se enfrentan a una escasez de viviendas seguras, decentes y asequibles, en particular viviendas disponibles para personas con ingresos modestos. Houston, como gran parte de nuestro país, ha tenido durante mucho tiempo un problema con el suministro de viviendas asequibles adecuadas.

Hay un impacto directo tanto en los inquilinos como en los propietarios de viviendas, y especialmente en los hogares afroamericanos, hispanos y aquellos con los ingresos más bajos. Aumentar la oferta general y la accesibilidad de viviendas asequibles es esencial para aumentar la seguridad de la vivienda y garantizar una recuperación equitativa de la pandemia de COVID-19.Invertir en la producción y preservación de viviendas asequibles y crear nuevas herramientas para la estabilidad de la vivienda son fundamentales para cerrar las brechas de propiedad de vivienda para las personas de color, evitar que crezcan las divisiones raciales y lograr la asequibilidad y la seguridad de la vivienda para todos.Habitat para la Humanidad de Houston está trabajando activamente para hacer lo siguiente:

  • Ampliar la producción doméstica asequible.
  • Aumentar el acceso a las viviendas existentes.
  • Preservar hogares asequibles y ayudar a las personas a conservar sus hogares en tiempos de dificultad

Habitat para la Humanidad de Houston está abordando activamente la discriminación racial en la vivienda de nuestra comunidad

En Hábitat para la Humanidad de Houston, sabemos que el hogar no es solo un edificio o un inmueble; también es la comunidad en la que vives, trabajas y creces. A medida que las comunidades experimentan nuevos desarrollos e inversiones, las localidades necesitan sistemas para preservar la asequibilidad, ampliar las oportunidades de propiedad de vivienda y evitar el desplazamiento de los residentes de bajos ingresos.

Hábitat para la Humanidad aboga por políticas antirracistas de vivienda y uso de la tierra a nivel local, estatal y federal que buscan aumentar la equidad racial en la propiedad de vivienda. Más del 90% de las familias a las que Habitat para la Humanidad de Houston ha servido en su programa de propiedad de viviendas son afroamericanas e hispanas, al igual que los vecindarios en los que Habitat para la Humanidad de Houston trabaja para revitalizarlos.

Hábitat para la Humanidad de Houston está en proceso de desarrollar Robins Landing, una nueva comunidad de ingresos mixtos en el noreste de Houston. Robins Landing proporcionará 468 viviendas unifamiliares asequibles para habitantes de Houston de bajos ingresos. Se espera que la demografía de estos nuevos propietarios sea consistente con el tramo del censo: 97 % de minorías, incluido 64 % de afroamericanos, ayudar a las familias de color a lograr la propiedad de vivienda y abordar la inequidad racial.

¿Cómo abogamos por viviendas asequibles para propietarios?

Hábitat para la Humanidad de Houston y Hábitat para la Humanidad Internacional están buscando activamente cambios en las políticas y en el sistema que rectifiquen las oportunidades de vivienda desiguales y la asequibilidad para las personas de color, que cierren la brecha de propiedad de vivienda y creen un mercado de vivienda más saludable con oportunidades asequibles para todos.

Hábitat para la Humanidad de Houston está colaborando con Hábitat para la Humanidad Internacional y su Grupo de Trabajo de Soluciones de Políticas Públicas para apoyar, asesorar y guiar el desarrollo de prioridades políticas y posiciones de su Campaña Costo de la Vivienda en todos los niveles de gobierno. El grupo de trabajo identificará las prioridades de la política federal de vivienda asequible, guiará el desarrollo de la agenda de la política federal para la campaña e identificará y definirá las prioridades de la política estatal y local para los cuatro subtemas de la campaña.

Fuentes: 

Campaña Costo de la Vivienda, Hábitat para la Humanidad Internacional

Encuesta del área de Houston del Instituto Kinder de 2022, Rice Kinder Institute for Urban Research

Informe sobre el estado de la vivienda de 2022 2022, Rice Kinder Institute for Urban Research

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