Habitat for Humanity of Wake County Homeownership
How much assistance
Affordable below-market mortgage (Habitat builds/rehabilitates homes and sells at affordable prices) (Zero-Interest Loan)
Not forgivable — affordable monthly mortgage payments required. Payments capped at 30% of gross monthly income.
Eligibility
- Income limits: At or below 60% AMI (per national Habitat guidelines — VERIFY with Wake County affiliate for exact threshold).
- First-time buyer required: Yes — Designed for those who have not yet had access to the equity-building opportunity of owning a home or land
- Geographic restrictions: Wake County and Johnston County
- Homebuyer education required: Yes
Notes
NOT a traditional down payment assistance program. Habitat builds or rehabs homes and sells to qualified families with affordable zero-interest mortgages. Application is competitive — family selection committee evaluates need, willingness to partner, and ability to repay. Requires 200-400 hours of "sweat equity" (construction, ReStore volunteering, or admin). Since 1985, Habitat Wake has built 850+ homes. Income limit of 60% AMI sourced from national Habitat guidelines — Wake County affiliate may differ slightly. Credit score not specified — some affiliates accept alternative credit documentation. Source: habitatwake.org.