Frequently Asked Questions

What is Habitat for Humanity of Williamson County?

Habitat for Humanity of Williamson County (HFHWC) is a non-profit, 501(c)3 organization and ecumenical Christian ministry that works with low-income families and donors to build simple, decent homes and sell them with no profit and no interest. HFHWC was fully incorporated as an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International on December 5, 1992. We have built more than 130 homes in Williamson County and continue to build 10-12 new homes per year.

How does it work?

HFHWC offers a hand up, not a handout. We build and sell simple, decent homes to qualifying families at no profit and carry the 20,25 or 30-year mortgages at 0% interest. Habitat serves as both the general contractor and the mortgage lender on all of the houses. Habitat brings together sponsors and volunteers to fund and build each home in partnership with families. More than 70% of the work done on each house is done through volunteer labor, and HFHWC receives donations of money and materials from individuals, companies, and groups who are committed to the ministry of Habitat. A volunteer Family Selection Committee qualifies applicants for the Homeownership Program.

How do communities benefit from Habitat's work?

Habitat helps individual families achieve homeownership by successfully completing a comprehensive Homeownership Education Program. The entire community benefits. Habitat's mission is to eliminate substandard housing from the face of the earth. We work toward this goal by replacing run-down lots and condemned houses with new, Energy-Star homes. Habitat builds small neighborhoods governed by a Homeowners Association, Habitat's work fills a need for affordable housing in Williamson County and Maury County.

Who does HFHWC serve?

HFHWC serves low-income families who live and/or work in Williamson or Maury County. We serve those who earn between 30-60% of the area median income and would not qualify for conventional mortgage financing.

How are families selected?

Families must meet three basic criteria to qualify for a Habitat home. They must:

• Demonstrate need by living in substandard or overcrowded living conditions, by paying more than 30% of their income on housing, or buy living in subsidized housing.
• Have the ability to pay. Applicants must have steady, reliable income, a credit score above 500 and debt-to-income ratio below 40% based on a $550 house payment. 
• Cooperate with the committees on all paperwork, home visits, and sweat equity, including completion of a budgeting class. 

Where does HFHWC build?

We have built more than 130 homes in neighborhoods throughout Williamson and Maury County, including Spring Hill, Franklin, Columbia and Fairview.

As an affiliate of Habitat International, we also give 10% of all unrestricted funds to build internationally. HFHWC currently tithes to Mozambique, an African country where HIV has taken the lives of many middle-aged citizens, leaving siblings to raise the family in many cases.

How much does a Habitat house cost?

House Sponsorships cost $70,000. HFHWC receives additional funding through grants and donations  to purchase land and pay for development.

How are the houses funded?

HFHWC works with churches, corporations, civic groups, and other organizations to fund its homes. Learn about the opportunities available for your group.

How is Habitat Williamson County governed?

Our affiliate is governed by a Board of Directors, composed of volunteers who represent various areas of Williamson County and donate their time to support Habitat's mission. The board sets policies and strategic goals. Day-to-day operations are managed by an executive director with the help of staff and volunteers.

How can I help?

Contact us to find out how you can get involved!