Question 1

1. prospective homeowner orientation

Accepted Answer

Habitat for Humanity of Central Arkansas (HFHCA) hosts orientation sessions for prospective homebuyers before opening an application period. Attendance at one sessions is mandatory before applying for a home.

The orientation session allows those interested in a Habitat home to truly understand the requirements, process and timeline of homeownership before spending time and energy on an application.

Please contact Manuela Catic, Homeowner Services Coordinator, at 501.251.6757 or manuela@habitatcentralar.org (mailto:manuela@habitatcentralar.org)to find out when the next orientation will be.

Question 2

2. application submission

Accepted Answer

Everyone interested in purchasing a Central Arkansas Habitat home must fully complete the application forms. Spanish application forms are available. There is no application fee charged. Once we receive your application, there are three things we review before moving on to the next step:
 • Income – Required employment for one year or more with the current employer
 • Credit check – Show any outstanding debt
 • Background check – Criminal background is conducted on all adult applicants

Question 3

3. proof of ability to pay

Accepted Answer

You will need to submit several other documents at this meeting, such as tax returns, paycheck stubs, driver’s license, and proof of legal residency.

Each adult family member who will be on the mortgage and/or living in the  home will be required to attend an ability-to-pay meeting where financial obligations will be explained.

Question 4

4. review by the homeowner selection committee

Accepted Answer

The Homeowner Selection Committee meets once a month to review each family in the application process that has demonstrated need, the ability to pay, and the willingness to partner with Habitat for Humanity of Central Arkansas.  
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If the reviewed applicant family passes the Homeowner Selection Committee, they will proceed to review by the Board of Directors.

Question 5

5. approval by the board of directors

Accepted Answer

The Board of Directors of Habitat for Humanity of Central Arkansas reviews each applicant for final approval. The board makes the final decision on all applicants to our program.

Question 6

6. sweat equity and construction meeting

Accepted Answer

Once final approval is received, the family is required to attend a sweat equity and construction meeting to discuss ways in which the family can work to achieve their 300 hours of sweat equity and discuss all the components of the home.
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The new home buyer will need to select and discuss various aspects of the house pertaining to carpet, vinyl flooring, countertops, etc.

Question 7

7. complete 300 hours of sweat equity and homebuyer education course

Accepted Answer

The home buyer, along with help from friends and family, will work to complete 300 hours of sweat equity. This can be completed by volunteering on the construction site, attending workshops, and volunteering in other Habitat programs.
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The homebuyer education course helps future Habitat homeowners understand the homebuying process and how to develop a financial plan for the future. The class is available in-person and online. It comes with a certificate of completion that must be shown to HFH of Central Arkansas.

Question 8

8. second income qualification, credit and background review

Accepted Answer

This serves as an update to all financial documents before closing.

Question 9

9. escrow closing process

Accepted Answer

The homebuyer and HFH of Central Arkansas staff work together to close on the house.

Question 10

10. move into your new home

Accepted Answer

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