Affordable Homeownership
Established in 2000, Habitat for Humanity of Southern Santa Barbara County (Habitat Santa Barbara) is a local nonprofit committed to building strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter. We partner with low-income individuals and families in Southern Santa Barbara County to build or improve a place to call home. Homeowners build alongside volunteers and purchase their home with an affordable mortgage. Habitat Santa Barbara has built or rehabilitated 23 homeownership homes for 86 individuals, 50% of whom are children. Go to our Homeownership page for details on The Cota St. Affordable Homes, our next affordable homeownership opportunity!
Will I be able to rent a Habitat home?
No. All Habitat Santa Barbara homes are owner-occupied. The homes are sold to eligible low-income homeowners at an affordable mortgage.
Who can apply to purchase a Habitat home?
Qualified applicants must be 18 years or older, first-time homebuyers and have an annual income that falls between 60% and 80% of the Area Median Income as defined by HUD. In addition, a qualified applicant must be a citizen or legal permanent resident of the United States. As a part of the Habitat for Humanity model, other criteria include demonstrated need, a willingness to partner, and the ability to pay. For more information, see our Homeownership page.
How do I get on the waiting list for the application process?
There is no waiting list available at this time. You must attend a mandatory orientation to be eligible to apply for the Cota St. Affordable Homes. To find out about our next application and orientation window, please subscribe to our email newsletter.
Will homeowner partners be required to help build the homes?
Yes. All newly selected homeowner partners must contribute “sweat equity” in the form of volunteer labor. They will work alongside other homeowner partners and community volunteers to help build or fix up their homes and the homes of their neighbors.
Has Habitat Santa Barbara built homes before?
Yes. Habitat Santa Barbara has completed four affordable housing builds, and Phase I of the Cota Street Affordable Homes, encompassing a total of 23 homes.
When will the application process begin?
You are encouraged to sign up for our e-newsletter and to follow Habitat Santa Barbara on social media to be notified of future homeownership opportunities.
I would like to volunteer to help build or rehab a Habitat Santa Barbara home. Who do I contact?
Please contact our Senior Program Coordinator, Penn McCormack, at penn@sbhabitat.org.
I would like to make a donation to help build or rehabilitate the next Habitat Santa Barbara homes. Who do I contact?
Please contact Susan Renehan, Director of Philanthropy and External Affairs at susan@sbhabitat.org.
For all media inquiries:
Please contact Susan Renehan, Director of Philanthropy and External Affairs at susan@sbhabitat.org.
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