Homeownership

What is sweat equity?

Sweat equity is the non-monetary investment someone makes in the building process. It’s about doing the hard work to bring an idea to life. At Habitat for Humanity, that means you’ll likely spend some time helping build your home or another family’s home alongside volunteers and sponsors.

Sweat equity can take many forms for partner families working with Habitat:

• construction work on the build site
• volunteering in a Habitat ReStore
• assisting in administrative duties
• attending an event, and more.

This co-working approach informs Habitat’s emphasis on sweat equity: all of us work together so that homeowners can achieve the strength, stability, and independence they need to build a better life for themselves and for their families.

Why buy with Habitat?

At Habitat for Humanity of South Central New Jersey we know that home ownership plays a critical role in breaking the cycle of poverty. As a Habitat homeowner, you’ll not only buy a home, but you’ll gain the stability and security that comes with it and a strong foundation for generations to come.

• Income-based mortgage offers affordable monthly payments set at no more than 30% of your gross monthly household income.
• Homebuyer education classes prepare you for the responsibilities of homeownership.
• Post-purchase support provides maintenance advice, resources, and opportunities to connect with your community.
• We are a trusted partner. For over 30 years, Habitat SCNJ has helped more than 374 families buy an affordable home.

Not financially ready yet? You may be eligible for our Almost Home Program which offers a customized action plan to help you learn to manage your budget, pay off debt, understand credit, and save for your home purchase.

Qualifications

To qualify for our Affordable Homeownership Program, applicants must meet three criteria:

1. Need for Housing
2. Ability to Pay
3. Willingness to Partner (sweat equity!)