The Family Services Department exists to ensure that Atlanta Habitat homeowners will be successful, living in their homes for decades if they choose. Staff coordinates outreach efforts to recruit potential applicants and hosts monthly application workshops about Atlanta Habitat’s program. They oversee a committee for selecting new homebuyers and organize a curriculum of classes that teach strategies for successful homeownership.
From 1983 to 2006, Atlanta Habitat built 888 homes in the City of Atlanta and Fulton County, housing approximately 3,000 individual family members. Atlanta Habitat's goal is to build 50 homes each year.
Atlanta Habitat homebuyers:
- Are families from all racial, ethnic and religious backgrounds.
- Are involved in their neighborhood organizations.
- Are advocates for affordable housing.
- Increase the tax base of the City of Atlanta.
- Realize the American dream of homeownership, and help strengthen Atlanta’s neighborhoods.
- Often pay less each month for their mortgage payment than they were paying for rent.
- Save over $100,000 by purchasing a home though Atlanta Habitat’s NO INTEREST loan program!
- Have monthly payments less than $600, based on the cost of the house and property taxes (which increase over time). Homeowner payments include escrow for property taxes, termite bond, insurance, and a maintenance fund.
- Provide a stable environment for their children; many new Atlanta Habitat homeowners have reported improved behavior and performance by their children at school.
- Invest in an appreciable asset through buying a home in which they build equity.
Homebuyer FAQ
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How can I qualify to buy an Atlanta Habitat home?
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See the Application Process section of this website.
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How long is the waiting list for prospective homebuyers?
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Upon approval, the period before construction begins on your home could be as short as a month. It may be longer, depending on available properties and other factors. This information will be reviewed with each approved homebuyer individually.
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I know someone who I think will qualify for a home. What can I do?
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Please direct him or her to this website and encourage him or her to call our office at 404-223-5180, ext. 100, for a preliminary phone interview. It doesn't cost anything more than a small amount of their time.
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What if I have bad credit or a bankruptcy?
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We do not look for perfect credit. As long as your financial history shows consistency in paying bills on time, the application will be considered. Bankruptcies, garnishments or repossessions from four or more years ago will not automatically keep your application from being approved. However, bankruptcies must be at least four years old in order to be eligible for the program.
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Do I have to have a savings account?
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No. Checking accounts and custodial accounts for your children can be used to satisfy the savings requirement. In addition, 401k or other retirement accounts are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. However, it is recommended that you open a savings account if you do not have one already.
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Can I apply for the program if I have more than $200 in savings now, but not consistently for the past six months?
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Yes, we offer a "Step Up Savings" Program for applicants who meet all requirements except for savings.
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How many people must be in a family to qualify for a home?
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At least two, but no more than eight.
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Do homebuyers need to be members of a church?
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No, we do not accept or decline applications based on church membership or religious affiliation.
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