We're often asked how partner families are selected. Habitat for Humanity of Southern Santa Barbara County does not build homes for families, rather we build alongside families who demonstrate the need and willingness to partner with us. After a family applies, our family selection committee chooses partner families based on their level of need as well as the following criteria:
- They currently reside in deteriorated, unsafe or overcrowded conditions;
- Have a total family income between 40-60% of area median income or $29,600 to $44,400 for a family of four;
- Ability to make monthly mortgage payments designed to fit within 30-35% of the family's income;
- Committed to investing 250 hours per adult family member of their own "sweat equity" labor into their houses, along with attending a training curriculum that addresses topics such as mortgages, insurance, and other homeowner responsibilities.
