Andy loves building his home alongside volunteers.
While he’s working alongside volunteers, Andy is earning “sweat equity,” which is a requirement of the Habitat program. Couples must earn 400 hours and individuals earn 250 hours, working on the homes of other Habitat homeowners and then their own
“It doesn’t seem like work. The volunteers and staff are really dedicated. They motivate me … and I’m learning with experienced people.”
– Andy
Benefits of Sweat Equity
Andy said he appreciates the sweat equity because it will help him maintain his own home. “I won’t have to hire someone every time,” he said. He’ll have knowledge of how to avoid deferred maintenance and make many repairs. “I also enjoy it.”
Andy Learned About The Program While Volunteering
When Andy volunteered a couple of years ago with Wichita Habitat, he never imagined he would one day be on the path to owning a Habitat home. It was a future homebuyer who suggested he look into becoming a Habitat homeowner. Because Andy met the income criteria, had a need for housing and was willing to partner with Habitat he was accepted into the program.
Staying on Track With a Budget Coach
Andy, like all Wichita Habitat homebuyers, is taking 40 hours of classes in financial literacy to ensure he’s successful. He also works with a budget coach. Together, they look at his income and expenses and how to set aside money for emergencies.
“He (budget coach) keeps me on track,” Andy said. “I’ve learned that my expenses will be higher in the future when I own my home. My water bill will be higher. I’ll need to take care of my lawn. I’ll be responsible for anything that happens and won’t be able to call the landlord,” he explained. However, added, “I will own my own house!”
He’s Creating Stability & Independence
Andy appreciates the stability and independence that come with homeownership. He noted that rising rents and eviction are issues that worry people who earn low and modest incomes. “Owning my own home will give me a sense of security,” he said. “It takes worries away from people.”
It usually takes a person or a couple between six to 18 months to complete the requirements and purchase their affordable home on a 0% interest mortgage.
Learn more about the details of Wichita Habitat’s homeownership program here