About The Program
Habitat for Humanity’s Homeownership Program partners with individuals and families in need of safe, affordable housing to help them build and purchase a home. It is not a giveaway or a free house, as homeowners make monthly payments on a zero-interest mortgage and contribute “sweat equity” toward building their home and others. Applicants must meet specific selection criteria related to need, ability to pay, and willingness to partner, and not all who apply will be selected. Meeting the criteria does not guarantee acceptance, as Habitat carefully reviews each applicant to ensure the best fit for available opportunities.
1. Need for Housing
Unsafe or unhealthy living conditions (e.g., poor plumbing, heating, or structural issues)
Overcrowding
Unaffordable rent compared to income
Temporary, transitional, or subsidized housing
2. Ability to Pay
A stable income within HUD guidelines (updated annually)
A reasonable debt load
A willingness to undergo a credit check
The ability to save for a 1% down payment and closing costs
3. Willingness to Partner
Completing at least 250 hours of sweat equity per adult (age 18+), this includes volunteering on build sites, in the office or ReStore, or other approved tasks
Attending all required homeowner education workshops
Staying in contact with Habitat staff throughout the process
Habitat for Humanity Greater Peoria Area is committed to building simple, decent, and affordable houses that will meet the needs of our homeowners.
The size of a Habitat house is determined by the number of family members as well as the lot size. Habitat for Humanity of Greater Peoria Area provides a standard floor plan for each size house which might be adapted to meet special needs of the lot or particular considerations of the family. All adjustments to floor plans are minimal and there is no guarantee that Habitat can meet all the desires of the family. An average floor plan for a three bedroom Habitat home is 1,200 square feet.
In a further effort to ensure affordable housing, we have focused on building energy efficient homes. All of our homes are Energy-Star certified, and we are making steady progress towards even higher levels of green certification. This commitment helps not only the environment, but it also helps create sustained energy savings for our partner families.
Visit our Photo Gallery to view photos of our homes, inside and out!
Take a Virtual Tour of one of our homes right now!
HUD Year 2026 Maximum Income Guidelines
(To be eligible, your household income MUST fall within the ranges below.)
Family Size
Monthly Income
Annual Income
One
$3,096-$4,954
$37,150-$59,450
Two
$3,538-$5,663
$42,450-$67,950
Three
$3,979-$6,371
$47,750-$76,450
Four
$4,421-$7,075
$53,050-$84,900
Five
$4,775-$7,642
$57,300-$91,700
Six
$5,129-$8,208
$61,550-$98,500
Seven
$5,483-$8,775
$65,800-$105,300
Eight
$5,838-$9,342
$70,050-$112,100
Please Contact Us for questions.
If you would like to begin the process, please fill out a Pre-Screening Application to ensure you meet basic income qualifications. Our staff will contact you if you are eligible to move forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Once accepted into the program, how long will it take to move into a house?
Habitat is a long-term housing solution. If you are selected for our program, it typically takes 1-2 years before you would move into your new home. This is because there are requirements you must meet, a lot must be selected, and then your home is built from scratch. Generally, the more quickly you complete your requirements, the more quickly you will move through the program.
Our homes vary slightly based on family size and children’s needs. The specific floorplan is selected by Habitat and is based on the dimensions of the lot. Homes are typically around 1,000 square feet.
I have income such as food stamps, social security or disability. Does Habitat count that?
To be accepted into our program you must demonstrate income within our guidelines but we count unearned as well as earned income; we will combine all sources of applicant’s income to determine the total household income. If you are retired or do not work, you must still have an income within our income guidelines.
What does Habitat look at on a credit report?
We look at your credit history and want to see that applicants have decent or no credit and low monthly repayments. We want to see under $2,000 in collections.
What if I have filed for bankruptcy before?
In order to be considered for the Habitat program, it must be at least 4 years since your bankruptcy was discharged.
If I am married, do I have to apply with my spouse?
If you are legally married, you must apply with your spouse. If you are separated, you will need to finalize a divorce before closing on your loan.
What about having a co-signer?
Habitat for Humanity Greater Peoria Area does not accept co-signers other than spousal co-applicants. You may not co-apply with a child or other family member.
