Homebuyer Selection Criteria
Homebuyers applying for a Habitat for Humanity Seattle-King & Kittitas County home must meet the following criteria:
1. Income
Total household income must be 80% or less than the area median income (some areas require less than 60% or 50%). Note that unemployment income cannot be counted.
| Household Size | King County | Kittitas County |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $81,700 | $60,150 |
| 2 | $93,350 | $68,750 |
| 3 | $105,000 | $77,350 |
| 4 | $116,650 | $85,900 |
| 5 | $126,000 | $92,800 |
| 6 | $135,350 | $99,650 |
| 7 | $144,650 | $106,550 |
| 8 | $154,000 | $113,400 |
2. Ability to Pay
Applicants must demonstrate that they can afford the home’s mortgage payment without being cost burdened. The following must also be true:
- Applicant must have worked in the same occupation for one year or at least two years if self-employed
- Applicants must show that they have at least 1% of the purchase price (approximately $3,000-$7,000, depending on the home) set aside at time of application
- While there is no minimum credit score to apply, applicants must have a credit history with no active disputes and show a history of on time payments
- Applicants must be clear of any liens and judgments; any bankruptcies must be discharged at least 4 years ago
- All other monthly debt obligations must not exceed 13% of an applicant’s monthly gross (pre-tax) income (includes proposed HOA/COA dues, installment loans, credit card debt, etc.)
If you are unsure if you meet all these criteria, you are still encouraged to apply! All applicants are screened for our Debt Barrier Removal Program which aims to remove debt as a barrier to homeownership for those who would otherwise qualify for a home.
3. Residency
Applicant must meet the following residency requirements:
- Applicant must live or work in county they are applying
- Applicant must not have owned a home within the last 3 years
- Applicant must use the home as their primary residence
4. Willingness to Partner
Our homebuyers contribute to the building of their community and furthering of Habitat’s vision, a world where everyone has a decent place to live, through participation in volunteer opportunities.
These opportunities can be completed in a variety of ways. Examples include working at the Habitat construction sites or stores, helping with Habitat or partner events, participating in a speaking opportunity or video, or by working in our office. Click here to learn more about Willingness to Partner.