Despite a devasting storm blowing through Houston two days prior, Saturday, May 18th, Houston Habitat for Humanity hosted the grand opening of Robins Landing, our new, mixed-income community and development featuring affordable home prices and highly coveted amenities. If you were unable to make it to the party, here’s a recap of the exciting day, along with information on how to tour a model home and apply to become a homeowner in this beautifully designed neighborhood.
Located in Northeast Houston and developed by Houston Habitat for Humanity, Robins Landing is the city’s first affordable master-planned community which is also walkable and transit-friendly. Created for mixed-incomes and all generations, homeownership of these beautiful high-quality, energy efficient homes include access to essential services as well as onsite green spaces and trails. The 127-acre community of Robins Landing is planned to include over 460 single-family homes and up to 500 apartments and senior housing units.
The family-friendly grand opening had model homes open for touring, plantis for the taking, live music playing, local food trucks with delicious treats, and a resource fair for all attendees. Kids happily enjoyed the onsite playground and got their faces painted in all sorts of creative ways! This event celebrated the opening of the first section of the Robins Landing community, which is designed specifically to be affordable to people of all incomes. “This used to be nada, nothing,” said Houston Habitat’s chief executive, Allison Hay, as she led a tour of the subdivision which, until recently, was unused land filled with weeds, grasses and forest.
Work began on this Houston Habitat land in February 2022. Today, there are sidewalks, picnic tables, a pond and pavilion, and freshly laid streets which are being enjoyed by the families who have already moved into their new homes here. Currently, Habitat homes that are available at Robins Landing are single floor homes that consist of three and four bedrooms with an attached car garage and a nice fenced yard. 3 and 4-bedroom single family homes with attached two-car garages are available. Robins Landing is a project which goes beyond city of Houston requirements; designed with extensive community input and knowledge from past experiences, residents can expect capable stormwater infrastructure, a childcare center, healthcare, banking, a library and further community-supporting services. Also a resilience hub, which will be a space for residents to obtain necessary services like food assistance and community education, and to connect with resources during emergencies like extreme heat, flooding, and/or power outages.
Planning for Robins Landing features include trail connections to nearby parks, a fruit and nut orchard, a commercial-grade community kitchen for residential rental, and a branch of the Houston Public Library. These endeavors are tied to Houston Habitat’s commitment to sensibly priced commercial real estate as well as reasonably priced homes where families can flourish. Plans are underway for a bank, a health clinic, and a makerspace.
Out of the 468 single-family homes, 100 will serve those who make as little as 50% of the area median income(AMI) up to 80% AMI. Three hundred homes will be affordable to families making up to 120% AMI or up to $90,800 for a family of two. The median household income in the census tract is roughly $37,000, according to census estimates. Additionally, 68 single-family homes will be sold at market rates, which are currently around $225,000 to $330,000 for homes in area newly developed subdivisions, according to Community Builders Advisory Services, which collects data on new construction.
By carefully choosing materials and energy efficient building methods, Houston Habitat builds homes that are safe, healthy, environmentally friendly and have low costs to own and maintain. Habitat homes have nine-foot ceilings, energy-efficient appliances and a wheelchair-friendly design, such as ramps inside the garage, three-foot-wide doors and reinforced walls where homeowners could install grab bars. Further, the homes are Energy-Star certified and utilize Fortified roof standards.
Robins Landing is located on Tidwell Road, east of Mesa Drive and inside Beltway 8, nestled between the lush Harris County Greens Thicket and Houston’s newly renovated Brock Park. Associated Houston ISD Schools are North Forest High School, Forest Brook Middle School, Hilliard Elementary School, and Fonwood Early Childhood Center. Associated KIPP Schools are KIPP Legacy Preparatory School, KIPP Northeast College Preparatory, KIPP Polaris Academy for Boys, and KIPP Voyage Academy for Girls.
Houston Habitat for Humanity purchased raw land and added infrastructure for the entire project, including clearing and grading, installing sewers and utilities, and creating streets, curbs, residential building lots, and commercial pad sites. Robins Landing is designed to meet standards derived from Atlas 14, the post-Harvey rainfall study which interprets historical data to predict future rainfalls. These standards, which are implemented throughout the project’s development, exceed the City of Houston’s building code requirements, will not contribute to more flooding, and aim to help mitigate future potential flooding.
Everyone deserves a decent, affordable place to call home plus reasonable access to the resources needed to successfully live, work, and play throughout their life. Through Houston Habitat’s homeownership program, families obtain affordable homeownership, which creates an environment of strength, stability and independence. See if you are eligible to purchase a Houston Habitat home, learn about the steps and begin your application to become a Houston Habitat Homeowner. Your place in Robins Landing awaits!
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After dreaming of homeownership, the next step is making it a reality, which can be confusing. Many questions pop up for those beginning the process, like how much do you have to put down on a house? What to know about buying a house in Texas? What is a “First-Time Home Buyer”? Where to find home buying help in Texas?
Houston Habitat for Humanity is here to support you! Below is a guide to available homeowner down payment assistance programs in Texas.
If you are, or would like to be, a good place to start is to see if you qualify for a first-time homebuyer program, loan or assistance. Two major benefits of being a first-time homebuyer is that requirements are typically more flexible than traditional programs, and many options are available.
The average listing price for homes in Houston was $334,000 in February 2024. That number dropped 3.2% year-over-year, according to realtor.com. At today’s home prices, making a down payment in Houston, Texas might cost $10,020 for 3% down payment, or $66,800 for 20% down payment.
Texas has its own homeownership assistance programs and grants designed especially for those who call the Lone Star state home.
● Houston Habitat for Humanity – through volunteer labor, builds and rehabilitates houses for families in need. Start here to see who is eligible to apply!
● NACA – provides comprehensive counseling and access to its Best in America mortgages for affordable homeownership for low-to-moderate income people.
● Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs programs help moderate- and low-income families achieve homeownership in Texas via two programs: My First Texas Home program and the My Choice Texas Home loan.
The Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation (TSAHC) is a nonprofit organization created by the Texas Legislature to help Texans achieve homeownership. The “Home Sweet Texas” Home Loan Program starts with an eligibility quiz, then information about qualifying TSAHC programs. The next step is contacting an area participating lender and links for applying for a mortgage interest tax credit. These DPA programs are down payment assistance Texas grown!
A down payment is the money paid upfront to complete a real estate sale. Down payments are typically a percentage of a home’s purchase price and can range from 3% – 20% for a primary residence. For example, if a home costs $100,000 and a down payment of 5% is required, then $5,000 must be paid at the time of purchase.
Down payment assistance (DPA) is a general name for financial help for homebuyers. These programs reduce the amount needed to be saved for a home’s down payment. Available options for DPAs include loans for repayment with low or no interest, forgivable loans, and monetary gifts which never have to be repaid.
The City of Houston Housing and Community Development provides a no-interest, forgivable loan (secured by a lien) of up to $50,000 to income-qualified residents for first-time homebuyers inside the city limits through their Homebuyer Assistance Program.
Qualifications to be met are household income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income, first-time homebuyer (or have not owned a home in the last 3 years), U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and the home for purchase be eligible to pay taxes to the City of Houston. The loan is fulfilled if the buyer lives in the home for five years.
Another option is through the Harris County Community Services Department’s down payment assistance, which assists with home buyers looking in the unincorporated areas of Harris County; this support excludes homes within the official cities of Houston, Baytown, or Pasadena. Qualifying criteria includes a credit score of 580 and successful completion of an 8-hour homeownership education course.
Houston Habitat for Humanity homes “will be in these areas in the near future”, according to Cassandra Robinson-Bacon, Homeowner Services Director. Learn more at a Virtual Home Ownership Fair and get ahead of the curve with this option!
Special programs are set up for service professionals such as teachers (Pre-K through 12th grade), law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians. The Good Neighbor Next Door program, overseen by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), works with these groups to buy a home in a “revitalization area” for 50 percent off and live in it for at least three years.
TSAHC has a similar program for school teachers, teacher aides, school librarians, school counselors, and school nurses, plus police officers and public security officers, firefighters and EMS personnel, veterans or active military, county jailers, peace officers, correction officers and juvenile corrections officers, public security officers, and nursing faculty and allied health faculty. The “Homes for Texas Heroes” Program is a gift with no repayment needed and no requirement to live in the home for a minimum time.
For veterans and service members, the Veterans Land Board Housing Assistance Program (VHAP) could provide low-interest loans to buy a home or land. VLB loans frequently do not require a down payment. If the loan term is between 15 and 30 years, up to $726,200 can be borrowed, and veterans with a VA disability score of 30% or higher are eligible for lower interest rates. Property criteria applies, such as a construction finish date of at least five years for a multi-family property.
Native American veterans and their spouses may be eligible for the Native American Direct Loan (NADL). The NADL program has no down payment requirement, limited closing costs, and a low-interest, 30-year fixed mortgage. This loan type is also a reusable benefit, meaning you can get more than one NADL to buy, build, or improve another residence in the future.
Everyone can benefit from more knowledge! Online resources are offered to anyone looking for more information.
Examples can be found at the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs; this course walks through three important phases of the home buying process: preparing for homeownership, financing and purchasing. The Texas Mortgage Credit Certificate is also offered. This may allow for a valuable tax credit when applying for a mortgage.
Houston Habitat for Humanity has a very helpful Virtual Homeownership Fair, which answers many questions and provides valuable resources. Further, Houston Habitat for Humanity can assist with many tasks connected to homeownership, even improving credit scores!
If you’ve cooked a meal, fixed a car, or hosted a party, you know planning makes for a better outcome. The same is true for building houses. Habitat for Humanity has made it a priority to make homes sustainable and resilient for families.
Two strategies are especially applicable to Houston: creating energy efficient homes and resilient construction. Houston Habitat for Humanity builds with these goals in mind to ensure homes keep heating and cooling bills low, while also withstanding Houston’s extreme weather eventss. Planning with efficiency and resiliency in mind is beneficial to communities, as it maximizes affordability and allows for easier repair and rebuilding.
Through careful consideration of materials and calculated building methods, Houston Habitat builds energy efficient homes which are also environmentally friendly, safe, and low cost-to-own and maintain for Houston homeowners.
Houston Habitat for Humanity is proud to offer homes with the ENERGY STAR® certification. The ENERGY STAR certification shows your new home has been designed and built to standards well above other homes in the market today. Houston Habitat homes feature better quality, comfort, durability. The ENERGY STAR certification also means your new home is of higher value, and is an increased investment for tomorrow, as this label indicates an improved process of inspections, testing, and verification to meet the strict requirements set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA. In fact, Houston Habitat for Humanity is so committed to sustainability, we have earned numerous awards for sustainable building practices, including Energy Star Partner of the Year/ Sustained Excellence awards, since 1996.
According to ENERGY STAR, the typical US household spends over $2,000 annually on utility bills. In Houston, the average annual electricity bill is $2,705.04. Homes with ENERGY STAR certification often see 30% energy efficiency savings compared to a standard home – in Houston, Habitat homeowners could save up to $800 a year!
ENERGY STAR certification is better for the environment too. Most electricity comes from nearby power plants, which burn natural gas and coal. A byproduct of this process is the release of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, which contribute to climate change. The emissions from these power plants also contribute harmful pollutants to the air such as sulfur dioxide, particulate matter, and nitrogen oxides. Reducing the necessary electricity in your home decreases power plant production which lessens damaging emissions.
Wondering how our builders make a home energy efficient? It is a multi-step process. Because Houston experiences heavy rains and persistent humidity, which can damage foundations and structures, gutters are important to redirecting water away. DuPont Tyvek Home Wrap is also used to protect against mold and condensation. Radiant barrier roof decking reflects radiant heat away from the attic, reducing the hours of run time for the air conditioning system. Insulation is rated by an “R” rating; Houston Habitat installs high “R” factor insulation, which also lowers energy consumption and energy bills. Double pane windows are mounted to prevent heat loss, and use of low VOC (volatile organic compounds) paint is a very important aspects of energy efficient Habitat construction.
Habitat for Humanity’s home resiliency connects closely with energy efficient building practices, as its aim is to keep homes affordable. Hurricanes, floods, and other natural disasters are unavoidable, but we can utilize materials to protect our homes.
Houston Habitat utilizes Fortified standards as one of the ways to keep home maintenance affordable long term. The Fortified program is a listing of construction recommendations from the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety which can dramatically reduce the damage a home suffers in a storm. Some examples are anchor bolts and oriented strand boards to protect against strong straight-line winds, which arrive during thunderstorms. Also used are hurricane straps, which secure the frame of the roof to the rest of the house and reduce the chances of the roof being removed by high winds. In an interview with Allison Hay, Chief Executive Officer at Houston Habitat for Humanity, she specifically noted that Robins Landing “homes will be elevated, our homes will have hurricane straps that will keep them from hurricane winds. We want to ensure that Robins Landing is resilient.” Habitat also offers homeowner resources, technical assistance and training to improve the resilience and durability of their homes.
As an international organization, Habitat for Humanity is committed to prioritizing climate resilient housing throughout the world. As a local organization, Houston Habitat for Humanity works to build a Houston where everyone has a place to call home; we also strive for sustainability and resilience for our homebuyers and our planet through build and repair methods to our work recycling, upcycling and reusing with the community through Habitat ReStores. We carefully consider FEMA Flood mapping (seen here) and the ever-evolving Houston Flood map (seen here) when selecting where to build in Houston.
Resilient and energy efficient communities boast many features outside of residential buildings which work towards the mission. One very important aspect, especially for Houston, is the use of retention ponds. These ponds are not for swimming or fishing, rather they serve as a holding place for stormwater when it falls quickly and heavily. These detention basins store this water instead of allowing it to flow as it falls, turning into damaging floodwaters. This temporary pond holds water until the channels can safely carry it away. Because Harris County is quite flat, most stormwater storage has to be created. New developments, such as Robins Landing, often use retention ponds to keep residents and their homes safe from harm.
Here are five ways you can reduce energy consumption at home right now.
The mission of Habitat for Humanity is to build and improve the places people call home.
By committing to careful planning, Houston Habitat creates energy efficient and resilient houses which are affordable through reasonable mortgages and lowered maintenance costs in Houston, Texas. Learn more about Houston Habitat’s homeownership program today!
Have you heard something about Habitat for Humanity and wonder if it’s true or not? When organizations have been around as long as us, some misconceptions are bound to arise! Here are eleven examples of typical myths associated with us; learn the truth behind common myths about Habitat for Humanity.
Truth: Our mission is sustainable wealth building instead of gifting free homes. Qualified homeowners partner with Habitat for access to some of the best mortgages available, which families pay monthly. In order to qualify to become a Habitat homeowner, applicants must have a need for housing, be a U.S. citizen or have permanent residency status, meet income requirements, and be willing to put hours toward financial education and construction of homes. What makes Houston Habitat for Humanity homeownership affordable is access to down payment assistance funds and mortgages designed to ensure families do not pay more than 30% of their household income.
Truth: Numerous studies continuously show that affordable housing does not negatively affect neighborhood property values. In fact, Habitat houses provide local government tax income and increased property values because Habitat homes are on the tax rolls and our projects often encourage nearby homeowners to improve their own properties as well!
Truth: Anyone aged 16 years or older who is interested in lending a hand can register to volunteer. No previous experience is required; we will teach you what you need to know. In addition to website training resources, the first day onsite has a safety orientation and introduction to the projects of the day. Next, volunteers are gathered in small teams and paired with an experienced staff member who walks through each task, teaching skills and safety along the way. Houston Habitat volunteers are recognized with awards based on total hours accumulated.
Truth: All homes built by Houston Habitat meet or surpass every city building code , and are not sold to the new homeowner until each home passes stringent inspections by official inspectors. In addition, each home passes Energy Star inspection, meaning the home is energy efficient. General work is completed by volunteers who are trained and supervised by Habitat staff, while trade work such as electrical, roofing, and plumbing are done by licensed professionals. Regarding materials, Houston Habitat resources quality materials with local and national vendors, many of which provide Habitat with cost savings or donations in agreement with our commitment to quality of construction. “Our families are hardworking families, they deserve a safe, healthy place,” said Allison Hay, Chief Executive Officer of Houston Habitat for Humanity, recently.
Truth: Since Houston Habitat mortgages are capped at 30% of a homeowner’s income, many potential homeowners come into the program paying much more of their income on rent than they end up paying for a mortgage. Although additional costs are often associated with homeownership, Houston Habitat homes are Energy Star certified and use WaterSense fixtures reducing water usage keeping with the goal of affordability.
Truth: While Habitat does accept some government funds and property, it is not a government organization or an arm of the city, state or federal government. Rather, Houston Habitat is an independent nonprofit organization and an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, with a specific service area that includes the city of Houston and the majority of Harris County.
Truth: Study after study has proven the positive effects of homeownership on individuals and families. Benefits include physical and mental health improvements, reduced stress, and academic success. One example, according to a survey of more than 400 Habitat families in metro Denver, showed children raised in a Habitat home were twice as likely to go to college. Read here about one person whose life turned around from poverty after settling in a Habitat Home: James’ Story.
Truth: Houston Habitat follows a nondiscriminatory policy of home ownership and abides by the regulations of the Fair Housing Act. No race, ethnicity or religion is given preference when becoming a Habitat family partner. Habitat for Humanity was founded as a Christian housing ministry, however, anyone can partner with Habitat. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, nation of origin, gender, sexual orientation, family status, marital status or any other protected classes. Equal Housing Opportunity: We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the nation.
Truth: On the rare occasion that a Habitat homeowner is struggling to make mortgage payments, our mortgage services staff reaches out to assess the situation. Our team can help those behind on payments through various mortgage assistance programs to put them back on track. Should a homeowner need to sell their Habitat home, Houston Habitat has the right of first refusal which means they must offer the home to Habitat for purchase first. If our organization chooses not to buy the house, they can sell to other interested parties but they must meet the same income requirements as Habitat family partners, 50-80% AMI (Area Median Income). This ensures the Habitat home continues to remain affordable and keeps the homes out of the hands of investors.
Truth: Habitat for Humanity never goes door to door. Anyone who arrives at the house without an established appointment is not affiliated with Houston Habitat for Humanity and should not be given access. There have been instances of people pretending to be Habitat staff, and even wearing Habitat shirts. Houston Habitat staff will not come to your home without prior established appointment. You may call our office at 713-671-9993 to double check the identity of the individual at your door.
Truth: Although building single-family homes is a big part of our mission, Houston Habitat also provides homebuyer and financial education classes for prospective homeowners on a range of topics. Our organization also provides repair programs for Seniors and Veterans. In times of disaster, Houston Habitat has performed extensive Disaster Repair helping those impacted get back into safe healthy homes. Recently, Houston Habitat began to rehab homes to make them suitable for purchase with the same great quality of our new construction homes. We also build playhouses for children of Habitat homeowners and Veteran families! Further, Houston Habitat also has two stores you can purchase items for your home or repairs. Learn more and visit our Houston Habitat ReStores.
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Today, there is a massive crisis for affordable housing affecting the United States, Texas, and Houston. Pandemic-propelled working from home, the housing bubble 2023, and an ever-expanding population are all significant contributors to this problem.
Learn more about this issue, and how Habitat for Humanity is fighting back with new construction and innovative strategies designed to tackle unaffordable housing head-on, plus answers to some frequently asked questions connected to affordable housing solutions.
The 2023 State of the Nation’s Housing report from the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard illustrates top levels of unaffordability, near-record shortages, and significant barriers to first-time homeownership. The findings note the root of these problems are due to a significant lack of homes for sale, as well as an accelerated increase in homeownership costs beginning in 2022.
A second group reviewing the shortage of an affordable house for all is the National Low Income Housing Coalition, whose latest annual report evaluates the availability of affordable rental homes, particularly for households with extremely low incomes. This category is defined as income at or below either the federal poverty guideline or 30% of the area median income.
The key findings log that families in need of decent, affordable housing face the biggest challenges. There are only 7 million affordable units for 11 million households with extremely low incomes, but of the 7 million, 3.3 million are occupied by households with higher incomes. Texas is one of six states with the most severe shortages, with Houston ranking 5th for worst metropolitan areas in the country, according to the 2024 State of the Nation’s Housing report.
Although Houston has seen its share of economic growth, it is a harsh reality that these benefits don’t always trickle down to everyone. Families earning modest incomes often get outbid on livable real estate by those with deeper pockets, even when looking at supposedly ‘affordable’ options. This imbalance isn’t just frustrating; it also threatens stability and diminishes hope for those who are working to build better futures.
Houston homeownership has become seemingly less obtainable due to expanding expenses such as higher utility & tax rates, inflated material prices for repairs, and rising insurance costs. Income-based housing numbers often do not consider these necessary monetary obligations in addition to mortgage payments. Although there are ways current homeowners can help themselves when it comes to these costs, such as reducing energy bills, learning about and performing maintenance and repairs, and negotiating necessary insurance coverage, those considering becoming homeowners can still feel overwhelmed.
What doesn’t help the situation further is when incomes don’t always keep pace with these expenses either. According to the Federal Finance Housing Agency, home prices rose 74% from 2010 to 2022. The average wage rose only 54% during the same time. That can leave a significant gap in funds available to purchase a home.
In July, the White House released information for the Biden-Harris Administration’s Housing Supply Action Plan, the goal of which is an economy where everyone has access to a safe and affordable home. The Biden housing plan has action items such as reducing barriers to build housing including restrictive, costly land use and zoning rules; expanding financing for affordable, energy efficient, and resilient housing; and promoting opportunities for commercial-to-residential conversion, particularly for affordable housing.
Additionally, in October, the current Administration announced $100+ Million for energy efficiency and climate resilience upgrades in 1,500 low-income households, in an effort to reduce utility rates and repair/maintenance costs. This plan is about making changes to how we tackle housing shortages, including land use, zoning, materials, and providing opportunities for rehab of existing homes. The idea is simple yet effective: fast track through cumbersome bureaucracy to allow local developers and builders to get shovels in dirt faster, and expedite the
Houston Habitat for Humanity has created many avenues to achieve success against the affordable housing crisis. Volunteering, donating, and sharing the mission are all essential, as well as advocating for homeownership to others and yourself!! In the words of Chris Hensman, Chief Strategy Officer, of Houston Habitat for Humanity, “We want people to be setup for success!”
Houston Habitat’s home repair program preserves existing affordable communities and maintains homeownership for low-income individuals and families. Our home repair program preserves homes that would have been torn down and replaced with new houses that are too expensive for existing community residents, slowing gentrification. Many seniors and veterans have saved their homes at reasonable cost through our critical repair program!
Further, Houston Habitat for Humanity is transforming a local area into a new 127-acre planned community named Robins Landing. This neighborhood will deliver safe and affordable housing, while also providing East Houston residents with a childcare center, a health clinic, parks, a public library, grocery co-op, stormwater infrastructure, and more community-supporting services! This project goes beyond city requirements, taking lessons from the past to create an elevated design with replication in mind. Robins Landing is an advanced development of 468 affordable single-family homes and 500 multi-family units, made possible through innovative partnerships.
How do you qualify for a homeowner program in Houston?
To get into affordable homes, you need to show that your income meets the minimum household gross income for your family size compared to the local median. You can prove this by providing pay stubs and tax returns when applying.
Who qualifies for affordable housing in Texas?
In Texas, individuals or families making under 60% of the area median income are eligible to apply for affordable housing. Seniors and veterans often receive priority in the application process.
Can veterans directly assist other veterans?
Yes! If you are a veteran and would like to help a veteran family achieve the dream of homeownership, then create VolunteerHub account or sign in, check yes to the veteran volunteer program question on your profile page, and sign up for a build or ReStore volunteer opportunity.
Backed with a deep understanding of how to advance houses based on income, Houston Habitat for Humanity is the best choice for potential homeowners. Affordable housing solutions are our mission!
Sources:
https://www.habitat.org/costofhome/2023-state-nations-housing-report-lack-affordable-housing
https://housingmatters.urban.org/research-summary/addressing-americas-affordable-housing-crisis
https://taahp.org/gap-report-texas-ranks-the-6th-worst-state-in-the-nation-for-affordable-housing/
https://journalrecord.com/2023/09/study-examines-rising-costs-of-homeownership/
https://www.hud.gov/press/press_releases_media_advisories/HUD_No_23_239
Since 1987, Houston Habitat for Humanity has worked to fulfill its mission statement to build and improve the places people call home.
The goal of this non-profit organization is to empower families to better their future. Enacting these mission values does require funds. Keep reading to explore our three main financial sources which propel our mission.
Direct financial contributions come from a range of donors, everyone from individuals to large corporations. We even have partnered payments where one person gives, then their employer matches the gift!
Flexibility is also offered, as donations can be made one-time or in monthly increments. When monetary donations are received by Houston Habitat for Humanity, our ability to provide grows responsibly!
Another way to help Habitat (and the environment!) is by donating a used vehicle. A national vehicle donation program since 2005, Cars for Homes has accepted over 120,000 vehicles for reselling or recycling for the benefit of fundraising towards Habitat for Humanity’s mission of safe, affordable homes.
Almost all vehicles are accepted, including cars, trucks, motorcycles, RVs, boats, farm and construction equipment. Donating this way is easy, quick, and may qualify you for a tax deduction. Find out more about donating vehicles to Habitat for Humanity!
You may have noticed a ReStore or two around town. These storefronts are home improvement stores and donation centers for Houston Habitat for Humanity. These thrift locations sell new and gently used appliances, furniture, home accessories, building materials, flooring, cabinetry and more at much less than retail prices.
All shoppers are welcome, and benefit from the lower costs. In return, , while we we utilize any the profits made here to build and improve Houston homes for our programs.
As an additional bonus, buying and donating goods at a ReStore keeps useful items out of the landfill. Looking for items to upgrade or redecorate your own home? Have materials to donate? Contact your nearest ReStore.
Payments made on mortgages go directly back to Houston Habitat for Humanity to further family empowerment. Reasonable mortgages are possible due to sensible loans, and cost reduction is made possible by the help of volunteers and donors.
The Habitat for Humanity mission values strengthening oneself. Through education, construction and guidance, families are offered better mortgage terms and payment schedules than the average homeowner.
Instead of granting a house for free, Habitat is an affordable mortgage provider who provides access to reasonably priced homeownership opportunities.
For over 35 years, Houston Habitat for Humanity has manifested its mission values throughout the community.
Did you know it is rated as a Four Star Charity by Charity Navigator, with a 100% score in Accountability & Finance? This organization works diligently to utilize its various avenues of funding for the most impact, and is proud to serve Houston families. Connect with us today to learn more about donating, shopping at a ReStore, or becoming a homeowner!
Sources: https://habitattexas.org/faq/
https://www.volunteerhou.org/agency/detail/?agency_id=17321
https://www.charitynavigator.org/ein/760207084
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.
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.
– 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.
– 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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