Own a Home
Applications are currently closed
We are not accepting applications at this time. If you are interested in becoming a Habitat homeowner, you are encouraged to sign up for our notification list.
To sign up, email us at info@habitatcolumbiacounty.org with the following information:
- Your name
- Your mailing address
- Your phone number
- The number of people in your household
You can also call us at 971.203.0020 if you have any questions or you would like to sign up over the phone.
Our service area
Please be aware, that we are Columbia County Habitat for Humanity of Oregon. If you want to own a home in a different area, you will need to contact the Habitat for Humanity affiliate office in that area.
Application process
Our application generally begins with an orientation during which we will outline the qualifications and application process. During the application you will learn about financing, other requirements, and program timeframes and will have the opportunity to get all your questions answered.
Preview our orientation materials here.
Considering a mortgage re-finance?
Check out some important considerations here.
How Habitat homeownership works
Habitat partners with people who need a decent and affordable place to live. Need is determined based on whether the family or individual is living in “substandard” housing—”substandard” can refer to housing that is unsafe or unhealthy, lacking utilities, too expensive, overcrowded, or temporary.
Habitat does not give houses for free. As a partner family, you will be buying a house from Habitat that you help build. You will repay a low-cost mortgage (no more than 30% of your income).
Our homeowners are also required to contribute 400 hours of sweat equity labor in building your home (no construction experience necessary). In addition to building your home alongside Habitat volunteers, homeowners will take monthly classes that help prepare families for the responsibilities that come with homeownership.
Columbia County Habitat for Humanity is an equal housing opportunity provider. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status or disability.
Housing FAQs
Can I choose the location of my home?
No, but applications are only accepted after land is purchased or donated. If you do not like the location of the lot, you can wait for the next round of applications.
How large are Habitat homes?
Habitat builds two- to four-bedroom homes. Home size is determined by the lot size and the size of the selected family.
How much will I have to pay for my home?
Financing is offered on a sliding scale depending on income. You will not have to pay more than 30 percent of your gross income for your monthly loan payment which includes taxes and insurance.
How many hours of sweat equity must I complete?
There are 400 hours of sweat equity that must be completed before you move into your Habitat home. Half of these hours may be donated by family and friends.
What happens if I want to sell or move?
Habitat homes come with a forgivable second mortgage. Each year you live in the home a portion of this is forgiven. If you sell your home, you will need to pay the balance of the second mortgage from the proceeds of the sale. Habitat homes must be owner occupied.