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Habitat for Humanity Okaloosa County makes homeownership possible and affordable for hard-working families who otherwise would find themselves trapped in deplorable conditions.  They are able to gain the independence, security and financial stability that homeownership provides along with a sense of pride as they become a part of safe, thriving communities.

There are no categorical barriers to obtaining housing through Habitat, including race, color, religion, gender, handicap, familial status or national origin.

The first step towards qualifying for a home is to meet the ten basic Pre-Qualifications and submit the required information to the Habitat office.

The basic criteria to qualify for a Habitat home starts by living or working in Okaloosa County for at least one (1) year.  In addition, applicants must demonstrate:

NEED

  • Unhealthy or unsafe living conditions - landlord is not maintaining property
  • Overcrowding
  • Living with friends or family because you cannot afford to live on your own
  • Receiving government assistance of Section 8 or public housing
  • Unable to afford rent increases any longer
  • Unable to get a traditional mortgage on your own

WILLINGNESS TO PARTNER

  • Willingness to complete 300 hours of "sweat equity" per adult
  • Participate in Homebuyer Educational Workshops

ABILTY TO PAY

  • Must have stable income for at least one (1) year
  • Make a down payment of $500
  • Owe less than 50% of your monthly income on expenses
  • No bankruptcy in past three (3) years
  • Acceptable credit payment history

Annual Gross Income Required to Qualify
Family Size Minimum
Income Required		 Maximum
Income Eligible
One $13,920
 $37,120
Two $15,900
 $42,400
Three $17,910
 $47,760
Four $19,891
 $53,040
Five $21,480
 $57,283
Six $23,070
 $61,520
Seven $24,660
 $65,760
Eight $26,250 $70,000

How It Works

The "American Dream" of homeownership becomes a reality for families in need through the work of Habitat for Humanity Okaloosa County. The nonprofit prides itself on being a hand up for our families and not a handout. In addition to paying reduced monthly mortgage payments, homeowners invest hundreds of hours of their own labor - "sweat equity" - into building their home and the homes of others.

Habitat for Humanity Okaloosa County relies on donations from corporations, foundations, churches, government entities and individuals to build homes. In return, the homes that are built with this money are sold to each new homeowner and financed with a 30-year interest-free mortgage. The principal portion of the mortgage payments are placed in a revolving fund to build more new homes.