Homeownership program
We help working families buy a home they can afford. One that is safe, stable, and built to last
If you’re looking to buy an affordable home in Thunder Bay, Habitat gives you a way to make it happen. You won’t be given a home for free—you’ll partner with us to buy it through our affordable homeownership program. We believe in a hand up, NOT a hand out.
No down payment
Geared to income mortgage payments
Who can buy a Habitat home?
We partner with working families who have steady income and strong goals but can’t qualify for a traditional mortgage through a bank. These families include essential workers like teachers, healthcare aides, transit drivers, and tradespeople—people who help our communities thrive.
You might qualify to buy an affordable home if you:
Are working and earning a steady income
Have good credit and no large debts
Can’t get approved for a mortgage through a bank
Are willing to volunteer 500 hours with Habitat
Are willing to partner with Habitat to continue with our mission: Bringing people together to build homes, communities and hope.
Buy an affordable home, build your future
Owning an affordable Habitat home gives you the chance to build equity and create a stable foundation for your family’s future.
If your application is approved, you will:
Buy the home, not rent
Pay no down payment
Pay zero to low interest
Make monthly mortgage payments set at no more than 30% of your total household income
Steps to homeownership
Check your eligibility
Start by taking our Eligibility Quiz. It’s quick and easy, and it will tell you if you meet the basic criteria to move forward with an online application.
Complete application
If you are eligible, you will be invited to complete an online application. Required information will include submitting documents with detailed information about your income, savings, debt and your current housing situation.
Interviews
If your application moves forward, there will be interviews, credit checks, and reference checks before our final decision is made.
Approval
Your family will be matched to a home and your homeownership journey begins!
Complete 500 hours
After your application is approved, you will begin your 500 volunteer hours which includes taking part in our homeowner education classes to help you prepare for homeownership.
Move in
When your home is ready and you have completed your volunteer hours, it’s time to get the keys!