Frequently Asked Questions

How does Habitat for Humanity of Williamson County build homes?

HFHWC works with volunteers and financial sponsors to build affordable decent housing with God's people in need. The profits generated by our ReStore retail operation are used to build more houses and help defer administrative costs.

What are the houses like?

Our homes are simple, decent single family homes, varying in size from 900 to 1100 square feet, depending on family size. They have central heat and air conditioning, and a simple kitchen with appliances. Each house costs about $100,000.

Where do the mortgage payments that HFHWC homeowners make go?

Homeowners make monthly mortgage payments of approximately $425.00, which are recycled to help build more HFHWC homes.

What is included in a homeowner's monthly mortgage payments?

The monthly mortgage payments include the principle mortgage payment, Property taxes, and homeowners' insurance.

How do homeowners complete their sweat equity hours?

Once selected, a Partner Family must earn 500 hours of “sweat equity” by attending financial management classes, home maintenance classes and other educational classes provided through our affiliate. The program is meant to be a partnership between our staff, our volunteers and our future homeowners. In addition, partner families earn sweat equity hours by working on the homes of other partner families in the program and finally on their own home. Some hours can be earned by friends and family members.

Is there a down payment on HFHWC homes?

The down payment is not monetary. Please see the question above. However, there is a one-time payment of approximately $2,000.00 required for escrow costs at the time of closing on the mortgage. The escrow costs include Homeowners’ Insurance premiums, property taxes and attorney’s and recording fees.

I've heard that homeowners never actually own their homes; they rent them. 
Is this true?

The statement above is false.  HFHWC is a homeownership program and not a rental program.  Homeowners are expected to plan for new responsibilities, such as unexpected repairs and regular home maintenance and improvements.

How many homes has HFHWC built since 1992?

As of December 31, 2007, HFHWC has built 79 homes in different neighborhoods throughout Williamson County.

What are some of the requirements of a HFHWC homeowner?

Potential homeowners must live or work in Williamson County.  HFHWC homeowners must demonstrate a commitment to a drug and violence free environment.  Homeowners sign a Repurchase Agreement with HFHWC detailing the guidelines for payment if they want to sell the house before paying off their mortgage.  HFHWC has the first right of refusal to repurchase the home. 

Once I’m selected, is there a support network?

Yes! Our Family Support Committee assigns a Family Support Partner to each family to assist the family in the process. HFHWC provides financial management classes, home maintenance classes and other educational classes to help our Partner Families learn how to be successful homeowners. The staff, sponsor volunteers, and Family Support Partner will guide each family through the process.