People need co-workers, not caseworkers
Habitat homeowners contribute "sweat equity" in place of a conventional down payment by volunteering in construction, office work and fundraising. By working together with Habitat volunteers, prospective home owners develop life and employment skills.
People living in inadequate housing need capital, not charity
Habitat provides this capital through no-interest mortgages. Wherever possible, homes are built with volunteer labour as well as materials which are either donated or purchased below retail cost.
Habitat homes are financed through a Revolving Fund
This fund is made up of donations and no-interest loans from individuals, civic groups, churches, corporations, businesses and private foundations. The homeowner's monthly payments of mortgage principal are returned to the Revolving Fund in order to build more homes.
Habitat financing is fair and flexible
Mortgages are interest-free and payments are established annually at 25% of the homeowner's yearly income. Each mortgage is held by the local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity. Habitat retains the first option to buy back the house should the homeowner decide to move.
Tithing
Habitat for Humanity is a global partnership. In recognition and commitment to that partnership, each affiliate is expected to contribute at least 10% of their undesignated cash contributions to Habitat’s International work.