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Become a Homebuyer

Homeownership applications are currently being accepted online. Review the information on this page and then click the “Apply Online” button near the bottom of the page.

Applying for a Home

To carry out our vision, we partner with individuals and families from application through construction to when the keys are handed over.

By working with us from beginning to end, we can help prospective homeowners prepare for the various responsibilities of home ownership, including learning about personal finances, mortgages, maintenance and upkeep of homes, and much more.

Habitat’s path to home ownership is an important and in-depth process, requiring hard work, time and dedication. But this helps to ensure the long-term success of Habitat homeowners, It generally takes one to two years from the time the application before a family can move into their Habitat home.

Are you eligible?

All applicants must be a US Citizen and have lived or worked in Effingham County for at least one year and must demonstrate the criteria listed below.

If you are married, you must submit the form with your spouse. We cannot accept your application if you are separated.

You must have been on your full-time job at least 1 year (or 6 months in same line of work as your previous position) or part time job for 2 years.

You must have less than $1,000 in delinquent debt. If you have a credit score, it must be above 640 (if no credit score, you will need to meet non-traditional credit guidelines).

You must have an income of at least $36,000 per year to qualify. (See Ability to Pay below.)

A fee will be charged each applicant to obtain a credit report and background check.

Need for Housing

Potential homeowners must be:

  • Currently experiencing overcrowded, unhealthy, or inadequate housing
  • Paying more that 30% or their gross income on rent
  • or experiencing other shelter needs

Ability to Pay

Monthly income must be No more than 80% of median income for Effingham County

Click for Maximum Income Guidelines

Mortgage payment including taxes, insurance and termite bond cannot exceed 30% of your gross monthly income.

Total debt payments including, mortgage payment, cannot exceed 43% of your monthly gross income.

Willingness to Partner

For a successful relationship between Habitat for Humanity of Effingham County and potential homeowners, these obligations must be met by applicants:

  • Be willing to complete at least 250 hours of “sweat equity” (volunteer hours)
  • Accept a home in neighborhoods where Habitat for Humanity of Effingham County is building
  • Participate and complete Homeownership Preparatory Training and Educational Workshops

Apply Online to Habitat for Humanity of Effingham County

Apply Online

After completing the application form online, upload the applicable documents from the list below. Once your documents have been uploaded you must make an appointment to bring in the application fee for the application to be accepted for consideration.

Application Fee

$50 Fee for each applicant and co-applicant (if applicable) (CHECK OR MONEY ORDERS ONLY)

Application Documents Required

  • Copies of last (3) three months pay stubs for each applicant (also for anyone (18) eighteen or older earning income, who will live in the home)
  • Copies of the last (2) two months bank statements of each applicant
  • Copies of the last (2) years of completed and signed tax returns & W2’s of each applicant
  • VETERANS: Copies of DD-214 FORM (DISCHARGE DOCUMENT)
  • Copies of last twelve (12) months utility bills, such as Georgia Power and water bills (if applicable)
  • Copies of a driver’s license or state identification card for each applicant
  • Copies of social security cards for each family member/resident
  • Copies of Divorce Decree/Separation papers (if applicable)
  • Verification of SSI/Disability for all applicable household members
  • Court Ordered Child Support or Alimony Income (if applicable)

If you are unable to apply online, contact our office for assistance.

Our administrative offices are located at 3605 GA HWY 21 S, Rincon, GA 31326, Telephone 912-826-6433.

We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the nation. We affirm and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.