Homeownership Program

Homeownership does more than provide families with a stable roof over their heads. Living in an affordable, owned home improves health and wellbeing, provides better educational opportunities, and helps build financial security. For more than 30 years, Habitat for Humanity of Gallatin Valley, Inc. has partnered with hardworking individuals and families to build affordable homes and strengthen our community. Through collaboration and education, Habitat increases local affordable housing opportunities by selling homes at cost and financing them with affordable loans.

APPLICATION STATUS

Habitat for Humanity of Gallatin Valley is currently accepting applications for upcoming home builds. If you would like to submit a pre-application, complete and submit this Applicant Interest Form and one of our staff members will get back to you if you meet all of our qualifications.

BECOMING A HABITAT PARTNER FAMILY

Our homeownership program empowers individuals and families to help build and purchase their own homes. Habitat partners with homeowners every step of the way, providing education, financial guidance, and long-term support to ensure successful homeownership.

PARTNER FAMILY SELECTION PROCESS

Applicants are selected based on four primary criteria:

1. Need for Housing
Applicants must demonstrate housing need, such as:

  • Paying more than 30% of income toward rent

  • Living in overcrowded, unsafe, or substandard housing

  • Lack of safe space for children

  • Applicants must not currently own a home.

2. Ability to Pay

  • Housing costs may not exceed 30% of household income

  • Homes are sold at cost with no-to-low interest financing

  • Household income must be below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI)

  • While Habitat is not currently providing direct loans, applicants may pursue financing through programs such as the Montana Board of Housing (MBOH)

  • HUD income limits are county-specific and updated annually

3. Willingness to Partner

  • Commitment of 300 hours of “Sweat Equity”

    • 200 hours completed by the household head(s) (volunteer hours can be split between home build and ReStore)

    • Remaining 100 hours may be completed by friends or family (hours may be split between home build and ReStore)

  • Completion of homeownership education and financial planning courses

  • Home must be owner-occupied and may not be rented or sublet

4. Residency Requirement

  • Applicants must live or work in Gallatin, Park, or Madison County for at least one year prior to application.

PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

To be eligible, applicants must:

  • Live or work in the county where applying

  • Be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident

  • Have at least three years since discharge from bankruptcy

  • Earn income within HUD-defined limits based on household size

  • Have a minimum credit score of 640

INCOME LIMITS

2025 Median Family Income for Gallatin County is $120,700.

For more information, please visit the following page which outlines median family income and different income level categories.