June is National Homeownership Month

So, apparently, June isn't just for mosquitos and ticks!

If your summer looks anything like mine, June in Minnesota means a few predictable things, like trying to outrun wood ticks in the tall grass, slapping at mosquitoes the size of quarters, or figuring out how to keep the house cool without having a huge electric bill or buying another fan.

But there is one more thing happening this month that actually has nothing to do with bugs. June is National Homeownership Month!

Homeownership is where East Central Minnesota Habitat for Humanity (ECM Habitat) comes in. We are a nonprofit, faith-based housing organization, and we believe that no matter who you are or where you come from, everyone deserves a decent place to live, one which is safe, stable, and affordable.

How Habitat’s home program works.

Homeowner Applicants

Qualification - You must show a steady income, demonstrate a real need for better housing, and be willing to partner with us (i.e., Sweat Equity).

Sweat Equity - Homebuyers do not pay a traditional down payment. Instead, they complete 200 volunteer hours. You do this by helping to build your own home or helping other families. In other words, you pay with your own hard work.

Letter of Inquiry (LOI) - When you have been directed to, submit the letter.

Apply - Wait for an announcement that we are accepting applications, the effective date, and the application due date. Application will be made available at that time. Checklist is available under “Housing Help.”

Homeowner Selected

Volunteers

Volunteering is a great way to get involved and make a difference in your community. Do you want to help build the wood walls and roof frames or hang wall panels? Do you enjoy painting or landscaping? Would you prefer to do site cleanup, pick up trash and sweep floors to keep the site clean?

ECM Habitat has a variety of volunteer opportunities for everyone. If home builds or repairs are not your thing, you might enjoy general office work, special events or social media.You can volunteer as a group, as a company, or as an individual.

Whether your goal is to give back on a build site or take your first steps toward buying a home, we are here to partner with you.

We invite you to share your own housing or volunteering stories!