Affordable Homeownership Program
Does Habitat for Humanity give away houses?
No – Habitat for Humanity offers a hand-up, not a handout. We build modest homes and sell them to our partner families at cost. We ensure that our families can afford the payment so they don’t become “house poor.”
Do Habitat homes have a mortgage?
Yes – we provide a no-interest, 30-year mortgage with monthly installments. Because the homes are sold at cost, and the mortgage interest rate is zero, the mortgage payment is usually far less than rent for an equivalent size dwelling. With more than 100 Habitat homes in our area, we have never had a family default on their mortgage.
Who builds Habitat homes?
Habitat hires experienced licensed and bonded contractors that offer a competitive price. A significant portion of the cost is offset by volunteers from companies, groups, and individuals. The partner families are required to provide 225 hours of sweat equity per adult. Accommodations are made to ensure that volunteers of all abilities can participate in a rewarding and meaningful way.
Who pays for building Habitat homes?
We are able to build homes through the generosity of our donors, including foundations, corporations and small businesses, church and social groups, and people like you! Donations go directly to our programs because profit from the Salt Lake ReStore supports the administrative cost of running our Habitat affiliate.
ReStore
What does the ReStore sell?
The ReStore sells new and used building materials, furniture, household goods, and home improvement items at a fraction of the cost of a retail store.
Does the ReStore make a profit?
Yes. Proceeds from the ReStore support our administrative costs. This way, monetary donations can go directly to our programs!
How can I donate to the ReStore?
Donations can be dropped off Tuesday - Saturday, 10 am to 4:30 pm or you can schedule a pickup by clicking here.
Does the ReStore accept everything?
In general, we only accept items we can resell; however, we do accept appliances, working or not. Click here to see what we accept. For a fee, our Priority Pick Up Service (handled by a third-party company) will pick up most items, including items for disposal.
Volunteer Opportunities
Can kids volunteer?
Volunteers must be at least 16 years old to be on a home building site or 14 years old to work in the ReStore. The legal parents/guardians of volunteers under 18 must complete the volunteer waiver.
Does every volunteer have to complete an application and waiver?
Yes, and this can be done online when you select the date you want to volunteer.
How many people can volunteer at a time?
A maximum of 15 people may volunteer on a homebuilding site and 30 people in the ReStore each day. You can make a special request for a larger group.
Do you cancel home building shifts during inclement weather?
We build year-round, rain or shine. Please come prepared for the weather!
What days can I volunteer on a home building site?
Home building volunteer shifts are offered on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, 9 am to 3 pm (all shifts are six hours).
What days can I volunteer in the ReStore?
ReStore volunteer shifts are available Tuesday through Saturday between 9:00 am – 6:00 pm (minimum 3-hour shift).
Do volunteers need to have any specific skills, knowledge, or tools?
No! We provide training, tools, and supervision. But we also love it when skilled workers volunteer!
Corporate Build Days
Will my company’s donations stay in the Salt Lake Valley?
Yes, Corporate Day Sponsorships will be placed in the Warm Home Fund which stays in the Salt Lake Valley.
Can people with disabilities volunteer on build sites?
We welcome people of all abilities and do our best to provide a meaningful experience to everyone; however, the entire build site may not be wheelchair accessible.
Do we need to provide our own tools?
We ask that you do not bring your own tools. We provide the tools you will need.
Will I have several days to choose from when scheduling my Corporate Day?
Yes, scheduling can be made as far out as twelve months.
Can my team volunteer over several days and work between the build site and the ReStore?
Groups with more than 15 volunteers have the option of scheduling additional days and/or sending some volunteers to the ReStore.
When is my sponsorship money due?
We prefer that the monetary donation be paid in advance or on the day of your Corporate Build Day.
Do Corporate Day sponsorships have to be monetary?
We prefer to have the monetary for the Corporate Day Program; however, we entertain all offers of in-kind sponsorships, particularly for building materials and equipment.
What should we wear to the build site?
Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear close-toed shoes.
Who trains and supervises volunteers?
The build site construction supervisor will provide a staff member to help you throughout your volunteer day.