Habitat Extended Program
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Expanding the path to homeownership in East Jefferson County
The Habitat Extended Program opens the door to affordable homeownership for more Jefferson County residents who are ready to build stability and invest in their community.
This program supports households earning between 80% and 150% of area median income, a group that is often locked out of traditional mortgages and priced out of the local housing market.
Through this new pathway, qualified homebuyers can partner with Habitat for Humanity of East Jefferson County to purchase a high-quality, energy-efficient home with a fair, predictable mortgage that fits their budget. Together, we aim to make homeownership possible for more working families who keep our community strong.
A community-centered approach
Every Habitat home is built through partnership. Future homeowners, volunteers, and Habitat’s construction team work side by side to shape vibrant neighborhoods where families can thrive. The Habitat Extended Program expands this model to reach more of the people who live and work in Jefferson County, including teachers, healthcare workers, service industry workers, tradespeople, and others who contribute daily to the life of our region.
Mason Street neighborhood in Port Hadlock
The Habitat Extended Program’s first homes will be located in the Mason Street neighborhood in Port Hadlock, a new development that will offer well-designed homes close to schools, transit, and everyday essentials. Homes are thoughtfully planned for long-term durability and environmental performance, reflecting Habitat’s commitment to building for the future.
What homeowners can expect
Predictable payments:
Homeowners receive an affordable mortgage structured to support long-term financial health.
High-quality construction:
Homes are built to Habitat’s standards for sustainability, energy efficiency, and accessibility.
A partnership model:
Homebuyers contribute sweat equity, participate in homeownership education, and help shape the community they will join.
A lasting investment:
Habitat homes offer a stable foundation today and a future shaped by security and opportunity.
Who is eligible
The Habitat Extended Program is designed for individuals and families who:
- Live or work in Jefferson County
- Earn between 80% and 150% of area median income
- Are willing to partner with Habitat through sweat equity and homeownership preparation
- Need housing that is safe, stable, and affordable
Your next step starts here
If you are ready for a path to homeownership that aligns with your income, your goals, and the way you want to live in your community, the Habitat Extended Program may be right for you.
Apply now, and take your first step toward a place to call your own.
Homebuyer Orientation
- A self-paced video orientation can be accessed below
- In person orientations are held the second Tuesday of the month at 3 PM in our office
- In person orientations can be scheduled at a time more convenient for you; simply click here
- Zoom orientations are held the third week of the month, Mondays at 2 PM or Wednesdays at 6 PM. Click one of the orange buttons below to sign up.
None of these options work for you? Email us to set up an orientation.
Program Application
Ready to apply? Click the green button to Apply Now or download an application below.
Program Criteria
The criteria for building a house through the Extended Habitat Program are:
Need
Habitat homebuyers are people in need of decent, affordable housing who are unable to resolve their housing issues on their own. Their challenges may include living in substandard conditions, including unsafe or unhealthy environments, lack of utilities, unaffordable cost, overcrowding, or temporary housing.
Ability to Repay a Mortgage
As a participant, you will buy a house from Habitat that you help build. You will repay a low-cost mortgage not exceeding approximately 1/3 of your monthly income.
| Household Size | Income Must be at or Below |
|---|---|
| 1 | $103,219 |
| 2 | $117,938 |
| 3 | $132,656 |
| 4 | $147,375 |
| 5 | $159,188 |
| 6 | $171,000 |
| 7 | $182,813 |
| 8 | $194,625 |
| Maximum Income Chart – 2025 | |
Willingness to Partner
Homeowners invest 200 to 300 hours of sweat equity labor in building their own house. In addition, monthly homeowner classes prepare families for the responsibilities of homeownership.
Residency
Program participants should live or work in East Jefferson County at the time of application.
Community Impact Areas
Participants satisfy one of the housing priorities criteria below by meeting the Core eleigibility criteria and also contributing to the vitality and resilience of our community through one of the Community Impact Areas.
| Community Impact Areas | Description | Program Type |
|---|---|---|
| Household Income of 40–80% of AMI | Those that meet the Core Habitat (traditional) eligibility criteria | Core |
| Household Income of 81–150% of AMI and Essential Worker | Applicant works in public safety, education, healthcare, or municipal services | Extended |
| Household Income of 81–150% of AMI and Local Business Employee | Works for a locally owned business or nonprofit | Extended |
| Household Income of 81–150% of AMI and Facing Displacement | At risk due to redevelopment, eviction, or gentrification | Extended |
| Household Income of 81–150% of AMI and Veteran or Military Family | Active duty or honorably discharged | Extended |
| Household Income of 81–150% of AMI and Multi-generational Household | Caring for elderly or young dependents | Extended |
| Household Income of 81–150% of AMI and Disability Needs | Requires accessible housing features | Extended |
FAQ
How is this different than the regular Habitat Homeownership Program?
The only difference is that we have a limited number of homes available for families earning up to 150% of area median income and need to satisfies one of the Housing Priority Area criteria. See the table at the top of the page.
What defines Community Impact?
Although there are many ways families make a positive impact in our community, Habitat must prioritize the limited resources we have available. Housing priorities have been defined that identify what we believe promote the vitality and resilience of our community. Please refer to the Community Impact Areas table above.
How much do the homes cost?
Home prices vary depending on factors like size and location. With that said, all homes will have an affordable mortgage that ensures you do not pay more than 1/3rd of your income for housing.
Do I get to select my own home?
Like with all Habitat Homeownership Program families, homes are assigned based on need. This means we will offer a home that fits your family size (number of bedrooms per our standard).
What if I need accommodations?
We’ll work with you! We offer accommodations so that everyone who is willing can participate in our programs. For example:
- Translation services
- Sweat equity adapted for disabilities
- Homebuyer education available for hearing or vision impaired
- Home modifications based on disability-related needs
- Assistance completing paperwork
- Additional accommodations available. Just ask!
What income do I need to qualify?
We review your entire financial picture, including your income, credit history, and total debt, to determine if you qualify for a mortgage to purchase one of our houses.
The best way to find out if you qualify is to apply so that our Homeowner Services team can review your unique financial situation with you. We take a lot of factors into account; you might be surprised you qualify.
What happens if I don’t qualify for a Habitat program?
Our Homeowner Services team will be transparent with you as to why you did not qualify and will work with you to help you qualify in the future!