“Home dedications are what motivate me everyday at Habitat. The joy is contagious!”
Frank Monaghan, Executive Director

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Partner Family?

A partner family is a person or family who has met Habitat Philadelphia’s housing qualifications and has entered into a partnership with us in the building of their home.  Partner Families agree to:

  • Assist in the construction of their and other homes by contributing 350 sweat equity hours.
  • Attend mandatory Homeowner Education Workshops.

Who is eligible to become a Partner Family?

Homeownership is a long-term commitment, so Habitat Philadelphia partners with families with stable income and consistent financial history.  We evaluate an applicant’s credit history to evaluate their payment history and debt burden.  If you are considering our program, please learn more about your credit report through free online services like www.annualcrediereport.com or consider financial literacy workshops.

  • People interested in home ownership who are not able to secure a conventional mortgage through mainstream lending institutions.
  • People willing to make the commitment to the 350 hours of sweat equity.  The work varies and construction experience is not necessary.  Friends and extended family may also contribute by volunteering on the construction site.  Part of the sweat equity commitment involves participation in our Homeowner Education Workshops so that partner families have the skills to be successful homeowners, neighbors and community leaders.
  • Persons who(se) are currently living in overcrowded, substandard and/or dangerous housing conditions; willing to live in the neighborhoods Habitat Philadelphia is building in and understands that Habitat Philadelphia typically builds/rebuilds a traditional Philadelphia row home; total household income falls between 30% and 60% of the median income. 

What are the current income guidlines?

2009 Income Guidelines. 

Please note, these income guidelines are subject to change.

Household Size

Minimum Income

Maximum Income

 1

 $16,350

 $32,700

 2

 $18,700

 $37,320

 3

 $21,000

 $42,000

 4

 $23,350

 $46,680

 5

 $25,200

 $50,400

 6

 $27,100

 $54,120

 7

 $28,950

 $57,900

When will Habitat be accepting applications?

We are not currently accepting applications (deadline was June 2, 2010).  Please send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to Habitat for Humanity to be notified of the next round of information sessions. The information sessions, when we hold them, must be attended to receive an application.

Attn: Director of Family Services

1829 North 19th Street, Philadelphia PA  19121

Does Habitat Philadelphia have a home repair program?

Habitat Philadelphia does NOT have a home repair program.  However, there are resources available through other organizations and City agencies.

Are there Habitat affiliates outside Philadelphia?

If you live outside Philadelphia, please call 1-800-HABITAT for the affiliate in your county or visit www.habitat.org

The Tucho Family