Habitat for Humanity of Durham Homeownership
How much assistance
Affordable below-market mortgage (Habitat builds or rehabilitates homes and sells at affordable prices with zero-interest mortgages) (Zero-Interest Loan)
Not forgivable — affordable monthly mortgage payments required. Buyers must be able to afford 70% of the appraised value.
Eligibility
- Income limits: Income limits apply but specific AMI threshold not published. Program targets low-to-moderate income families.
- First-time buyer required: Yes — Must not have owned property in the past 3 years.
- Geographic restrictions: Must have lived or worked in Durham County for at least 1 year.
- Homebuyer education required: Yes
How to Apply for Habitat for Humanity of Durham Homeownership
Step 1: Attend a Habitat Durham homebuyer information session.
Step 2: Submit an application when the waitlist opens.
Step 3: Complete 250 hours of sweat equity (construction, volunteering).
Step 4: Complete financial literacy and homebuyer education courses.
Step 5: Family selection committee evaluates applications based on need, willingness to partner, and ability to repay.
Notes
Added March 2026. NOT a traditional DPA program. Habitat Durham builds or rehabs homes and sells to qualifying families with zero-interest mortgages. Currently NOT accepting new applications — waitlist only. Requires 250 hours of sweat equity. Must have lived/worked in Durham County 1+ year and not owned property in past 3 years. Application is free; credit check fee applies. Goal is to serve 100 families per year. Source: durhamhabitat.org.