From Start to Finish – How Does a House Get Built?

1. Fundraising

Before anything else can take place, volunteers need to be recruited. They then begin the process of fundraising for the purchase of land and materials. They also enlist the support of corporates, timber yards, hardware stores, tool suppliers etc. to partner with Habitat in order to keep the cost down.

2. Selection

Interested families apply through the local Habitat office. Applicants are short listed based on the following terms: Those that are in the most need, are willing to partner long-term with Habitat and able to make the loan repayments. During the application and selection process families will be interviewed and may be required to attend a seminar to more fully explain the process. This is prior to a family being selected.

3. Building

The house is built/renovated by volunteers, corporate groups, community service workers and the family. No skills are required and there will always be experienced workers and a qualified building supervisor on the days of the build.

4. Dedication

Once the house is finished, the family has completed their sweat equity hours and paid a $500 tenancy bond, the house will be dedicated and the family can move in.

5. Family Support

The partnership with Habitat doesn't stop when the house is finished. Through their Family Support Committee, Habitat works with the family from the time of selection and during the repayment period to provide assistance in the move towards home-ownership. This covers such areas as home maintenance, monitoring repayments and other assistance as needed and available.