FAQ

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 22 new homes for 84 individuals, 50% of whom are children. In addition, we’ve led efforts to rebuild and repair 180 homes across Santa Barbara’s south county, and contributed to 430+ new homes constructed internationally.

What are the Cota Street Affordable Homes?

The Cota Street Affordable Homes will be the fifth new housing project constructed by Habitat Santa Barbara. The six homes will be sold at an affordable mortgage to Habitat homeowner partners.

Will I be able to rent one of the homes?

Yes. Habitat Santa Barbara has completed four affordable housing builds, encompassing a total of 22 homes.

Who can apply to purchase one of the Cota St. Affordable Homes?

The application process will be open to qualified individuals and families who are currently living and/or working in Santa Barbara County. 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.

How do I get on the waiting list for the application process?

There is no waiting list available at this time. You are encouraged to sign up for our e-newsletter and to follow us on social media to be notified if and when a waiting list is established.

Have you been in contact with residents of the neighborhood?

Yes. We canvassed the neighborhood and invited residents to attend a community meeting conducted in both English and Spanish during the Summer of 2021 so we could collect feedback on the project. We continue to support the neighborhood with home repairs, Neighborhood Revitalization Projects, and community landscaping projects.

What will happen to the structures currently on the properties?

The existing structures will be demolished and replaced by six new homes. One structure is currently being used as Habitat Santa Barbara’s office. One structure is currently occupied by residents who will be provided with relocation assistance. This project will provide a net increase of five new affordable homes.

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 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, encompassing a total of 22 homes.

Where will the homes be located?

The homes will be built on two adjoining parcels at 710 and 712 East Cota St., across from Santa Barbara Junior High. The homes will be the latest addition to Santa Barbara’s historic Eastside neighborhood. The Cota Street Affordable Homes will be adjacent to Ortega Park, and within walking distance to schools and shopping. A bus stop is located on the corner of Cota and Quarantina Streets, steps from the front of the new homes.

When will the application process begin?

The timing of the application process is subject to change but is expected to begin in the Fall of 2023. For updates related to the application timeline, interested applicants can check Habitat Santa Barbara’s website, sbhabitat.org, for updates. You are encouraged to sign up for our e-newsletter and to follow Habitat Santa Barbara on social media to be notified when the application process opens.

How many homes will be available?

The Cota Street Affordable Homes project will include six new residences.

Are you working with architects to design the project?

Yes. We are working with DMHA Architecture and Interiors. The DMHA team carefully analyzed the site opportunities and constraints to shape the design to be a successful balance of a comfortable, livable, and sustainable project.

When will the Cota St. Affordable Homes be completed and ready for move-in?

Construction is estimated to begin in the Winter of 2024 and be completed in one to two years.

I would like to volunteer to help build the Cota Street Affordable Homes. Who do I contact?

Please contact our Community Engagement Coordinator, Amanda Cobb, at amanda@sbhabitat.org.

I would like to make a donation to help build the Cota St. Affordable Homes. Who do I contact?

Please contact Susan Renehan, Director of Philanthropy and External Affairs at susan@sbhabitat.org.

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