According to a study by Harvard University, 25% of households spend more than 30% of their income on housing, which leaves them cost-burdened. In other words, they spend a large portion of their income on housing, which means they have less money for other essentials such as food, clothing, transportation, and healthcare.

This financial strain can be especially tough for single people. Without the benefit of a second income from a partner, many singles bear the full weight of expenses on their own, from rent and utilities to unexpected emergencies.

To help cost-burdened individuals, Habitat for Humanity uses volunteers, donations, and community support to build homes in partnership with people who need housing. But can a single person get a Habitat for Humanity home, or are they just for low-income families?

Who Is Eligible for a Habitat for Humanity Home?

Habitat for Humanity doesn't discriminate based on marital status, race, religion, or other factors. Their goal is to help people in need. Typically, three main criteria guide their selection process.

Eligibility Requirements for Habitat for Humanity

Criteria	Description
Need for Shelter	Applicants must demonstrate a need for safe, affordable housing. Current housing might be too expensive, inadequate, or unsafe.
Ability to Pay	Applicants must have a steady income and demonstrate an ability to pay an affordable mortgage. They must also have reasonable credit.
Willingness to Partner	Applicants must be willing to complete "sweat equity" hours, helping to build their home or others'. They should also participate in homeowner education classes.
Residency	Applicants must be legal residents of the country they are applying in and may need to have lived in the local area for a specified period.

1. Need for Better Shelter

Habitat for Humanity helps those who find themselves in a variety of challenging housing situations. There are several reasons people may need better shelter, and Habitat looks for the following issues.

Problems With Their House's Structure
Some people live in homes that weren't built properly. This can mean they're dealing with issues such as leaking roofs, broken windows, or unstable floors. Not only can these conditions be uncomfortable, but they can also be dangerous and put the residents' safety at risk.
Unhealthy Living Conditions
Homes can sometimes become health hazards. This might be because of mold, pest infestations, or poor ventilation. Living in such conditions can lead to various health problems, from allergies and respiratory issues to more severe conditions.
Damaged or Inadequate Housing
Natural disasters, fires, or wear and tear of time can damage homes. The damage might be too expensive for some people to repair, leaving them in a tough spot. Others live in a space that's too small for their growing family.
Accessibility Issues
People with disabilities deserve homes that cater to their needs. Unfortunately, many people living with disabilities find themselves in places that aren't equipped for them. They might lack necessary modifications like ramps, wider doorways, or special bathroom fixtures, making daily life more challenging.
Financial Struggles
Paying for housing can be challenging. Some single individuals or families need financial support because a large portion of their paycheck goes toward rent or mortgage. When housing costs consume too much of the budget, it can become tough to afford other basic needs, such as food or healthcare.

2. Ability To Repay a Mortgage

Mortgage as Percentage of Income

30% - Manageable

40% - Caution

50%+ - High Risk

When families or a single person gets a habitat for humanity home, they don't receive it for free. Instead, they buy it at a price they can afford. Habitat makes sure the mortgage is manageable based on the family's income. This way, the homeowners can confidently make their monthly payments.

3. Willingness To Partner

Those who receive a Habitat home must also contribute "sweat equity." This means they help in the building process of their own home or someone else's. It's a way of investing time and effort into their future home.

Can a Single Person Get a Habitat for Humanity Home?

Being single does not automatically disqualify someone from getting a Habitat for Humanity home. Every application is considered based on individual circumstances, not marital status.

For single applicants, the requirements are much the same as for families. The focus remains on the need for housing, ability to pay, and willingness to partner with the organization.

How Does Habitat for Humanity Ensure Homes Are Affordable for Singles?

Habitat for Humanity homes are sold at no profit with a 0% interest mortgage. The monthly mortgage payments are affordable, making it easier for single-income households to manage.

Do Single Applicants Have To Put in 'Sweat Equity'?

“Sweat equity” is an essential part of the Habitat for Humanity program. It's a way for homeowners to contribute physically to their home's construction or other Habitat projects. The volunteer hours might be adjusted for a single person, but participation is a must.

How Does the Habitat for Humanity Application Process Work?

The waiting process for a decision regarding eligibility for a Habitat for Humanity home can vary depending on several factors. The most common factors include the specific Habitat for Humanity affiliate in your area, the local demand for housing, and the volume of applications Habitat receives. Typically, the process can take several months to a year or more. Here is a general overview of what you might expect when you apply.

Application Steps for Habitat for Humanity

Step Number	Description
1	Contact your local Habitat for Humanity affiliate and request an application.
2	Fill out the application form with accurate details about your current housing situation, income, and family size.
3	Attend the mandatory information sessions or homeowner education classes, if required.
4	Wait for the review process. The affiliate will assess your eligibility based on need, ability to pay, and willingness to partner.
5	If approved, complete the required "sweat equity" hours by participating in construction or other Habitat activities.
6	Move into your new Habitat home and begin making affordable mortgage payments.

Application Submission

You start by applying to your local Habitat for Humanity affiliate. This application typically asks for detailed information about your income, financial situation, and other relevant factors to ensure you can afford the new home.

Homeownership Education

If your application is initially approved, you may be required to complete homeownership education or counseling programs. This process often takes a few months.

Home Interview

Habitat for Humanity representatives may visit your current living situation and conduct interviews to assess your need for affordable housing and your willingness to partner with the organization.

Waiting Period

Your application will typically go through a selection committee or board for final approval. The timeline for this step varies.

Decision and Notification

If you are approved for a Habitat for Humanity home, you will be notified, and the process of building or acquiring a home begins.

Where Can a Single Person Get an Affordable Home?

A single person can get a Habitat for Humanity home, but Habitat is just one avenue for securing affordable housing. Numerous other programs and initiatives are designed to help those who need low-income homes.

If you or someone you know is struggling to find an affordable place to live, check out Affordable Housing Hub’s housing resources. Our comprehensive collection offers insights into the various programs available to people in need. Everyone deserves a home they can afford, and there are more paths to that dream than you might initially realize.