How Families are Selected
Steps in the application process
1) Information Session
2) Application
3) Credit check
4) Home visit
Three selection criteria
1) Need
•Obvious need for a new home
•Earn between 30% and 60% of the Area Median Income
2) Ability to Pay
•Stable, adequate, verifiable income
•Low debt level
•Ability to make small down payment
3) Willingness to partner
•Contribute 500 hours of sweat equity
•Must be present at your job site every Saturday workday
Income Guidelines
The Family must have sufficient monthly income from a relatively stable source to make its house payments. Guidelines are based on family income, size of family, and other family indebtedness. As of March 2008, suggested maximum allowable gross income (before deductions) to qualify is:
| Family Size | Yearly Gross
Minimum 30% |
Yearly Gross
Maximum 60% |
| 1 | $19,950 | $39,900 |
| 2 | $22,800 | $45,600 |
| 3 | $25,650 | $51,300 |
| 4 | $28,500 | $57,000 |
| 5 | $30,800 | $61,560 |
| 6 | $33,050 | $66,120 |
| 7 | $35,350 | $70,680 |
| 8 | $37,600 | $75,240 |
Add $4,560 per family member over 8
These income guidelines change every year based on determination by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Honolulu Habitat may allow families with special circumstances to qualify, even if their income is in excess of the guidelines. Applications will be evaluated on an individual basis.
