Habitat looking for next homeowner

Habitat for Humanity of St. Francois County, Inc. is currently accepting applications of families who may qualify to build a new home.

Director Linda Dickerson said they currently have lots available to build on in Park Hills and Bonne Terre, and are actively seeking to obtain additional lots in surrounding communities.

Individuals must qualify based on income guidelines, live in the county for at least one year prior to applying, be willing to partner with a Habitat Family Partner to build the home, commit to contributing at least 400 hours of sweat equity labor toward the new home, and meet credit requirements.

Applicants must be able to show they have paid their bills on time and remained in good standing with their current landlord, show that they have suitable income to sustain a monthly house payment to Habitat, and last but not least, be able to make a down payment of approximately $1,000 at the completion of the home.

For an application packet or more information please call 573-760-1702.

Habitat owners have decorating choices, such as siding and roofing colors, carpet and vinyl colors, floor plan options, central heating and air conditioning, cabinet and countertop choices, as well as location options, low monthly house payments that include real estate taxes, homeowners insurance, and a maintenance fee that may be used to make future repairs to the home.  

Once you have applied for the program and have been determined to be qualified, you will be appointed a Family Partner who will work alongside with you to select a house plan, location and make all the selection choices of your home. 

This Family Partner will be your liaison to the Board of Directors and assist you in becoming and remaining a successful home owner. 

Habitat for Humanity will work in conjunction with you, your volunteers, habitat volunteers, local organizations and donors to construct a quality built home using quality materials and workmanship.

Habitat for Humanity will service your loan through the term of the loan to ensure that you remain in your home and remain a successful homeowner. 

“Many of our families that we have assisted with becoming homeowners, have gone on to seek better employment, returned to school to pursue their education and improve their lives because as a homeowner they know people care about them and are there to help them to succeed,” Dickerson said.