Habitat for Humanity re-opens 2023 applications for Palouse house

MOSCOW—Palouse Habitat for Humanity has re-opened the application period for the 2023 home in Palouse. Deadline for applications is Tuesday, Jan.. 31 at 5 p.m.

Applicants must currently live in Latah or Whitman County, and have a willingness to partner with habitat. As well as meet the income guidelines. Those applying have to be facing some kind of challenge in their current living situation, which includes having rent over 30 percent of their monthly income, structural issues, or overcrowding.

Habitat will be verifying income sources, conducting background and credit checks, as well as completing interviews and site visits during the selection process. Habitat homeowners are able to learn about budgeting, home care, and maintenance as part of the program.

“Most of our applicants apply because they were encouraged by friends, family, bosses, co-workers. I’m hoping the community will help us get the word out and encourage people they know to apply,” Executive Director of Palouse Habitat, Jennifer Wallace said. “Homeownership is a game-changer in someone’s life. It’s likely someone you know needs a Habitat home.”

Habitat homeowners are required to fall in the 30 to 60 percent area median income range, and have to contribute $1000 towards the closing costs. The homeowner is also required to invest 300 to 500 hours of “sweat-equity” to help build the home with volunteers during the 10 months it takes to complete a home. The homeowner will then be able to purchase the home with a zero-interest, income based mortgage from Palouse Habitat.

Program information and application packets are available online at palousehabitat.org/apply, or at the Habitat office at 306 N. Main Street in Moscow. Office hours are Monday through Friday 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Applicants can also call the office at 208-883-8502 to request a mailed application.