Overview of Habitat Homeownership
Habitat for Humanity Guelph Wellington bridges the gap for families who live in inadequate, unsafe, and/or unaffordable housing and want to become a homeowner.
- Favourable down payment options (families are required to cover closing costs)
- Manageable mortgage payments, so your family has enough funds to cover other living expenses and needs
- Educational training and workshops designed to prepare you to become a Habitat Homeowner
Homeownership can provide social and financial stability to families, which opens up possibilities for your future and the future of your children.
How We Create Affordable Housing
Families approved for Habitat Homeownership receive support to purchase a home. Our program makes homes affordable by having favourable down payment options and by using a two-mortgage model:
- The first mortgage is secured with a conventional external lender and is provided at market interest rates. The applicant family would apply for a mortgage from one of Habitat GW’s lending partners, with the support of Habitat GW staff.
- The second passive mortgage is provided by Habitat GW at 0% interest and covers the difference between the purchase price of the home and the first mortgage. No payments are made on this mortgage until the 20-year term is complete.
Applicant families need to show enough cash to cover closing costs such as legal fees and land transfer taxes. This is generally 2-5% of the home value.
How Habitat Families Build Wealth
- Families approved for the Habitat GW Homeownership Program enter into a shared equity agreement, meaning families and Habitat GW share the home’s increase in value or appreciation
- When families make their mortgage payments on their first mortgage, they are building their equity by paying down their mortgage amount
- Families also build equity by earning appreciation (growth in value) on the value of the home. Appreciation will depend on the ratio from the first to the second mortgage
- This enables families to build wealth by simply making their affordable monthly mortgage payments
Upcoming Affordable Homeownership Information Sessions
January 14th, 5:30-6:15 PM
January 27th, 5:30-6:15 PM
Homeownership Requirements
Habitat for Humanity Guelph Wellington provides affordable homeownership opportunities for eligible families in the region. This program is designed for individuals who are ready for the responsibilities of homeownership and meet specific criteria.
How to Start the Process
Habitat for Humanity Guelph Wellington outlines a clear, step-by-step process for families interested in affordable homeownership. The journey begins with an eligibility questionnaire and progresses through information sessions, application submission, financial pre-approval, interviews, and homeowner education, culminating in move-in and full ownership.
Our Communities
Habitat Guelph Wellington offers affordably priced units to both Habitat Families that follow the Habitat model criteria, and affordably priced units that are sold on the market. By pursuing this model we are able to build to the greatest scale possible.
