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Mutual Self Help |
How Does the Program Work?This fall five new homeowners will break ground on five new homes. These new homeowners will build their own homes in partnership with District 4 Human Resources Development Council (HRDC) and the USDA Rural Development Housing Services. The program is called Mutual Self-Help Housing. All families will work together to build the homes. When construction is complete on ALL of the houses, each family will move into their new home at the same time. Families are expected to work 32 hours per week on the homes. The hours can be worked by family members, volunteers, or friends. Workers must be 16 years of age or older. Construction on the homes will be done in phases with work completed evenings and weekends. The construction timeline on the 1st five homes has begun this fall with work completed in 8-10 months. Spring 2007 construction will begin on 11 additional homes with work completed in 10 to 11 months. We are now accepting applications for the spring 2007 build. Qualified buyers earn instant equity costs by working with a group of other families to help build their own homes. Their labor is called “sweat equality” and it can make homes affordable. Hard work is the key to this project, along with a desire to work together to build our community and new homes. The group commits to building their own homes, and embarks on a guided development that turns the dream in to reality. Mortgages for the homeowners are provided by the USDA Rural Development Housing Services. Is Mutual Self-Help a new program?NO. The Mutual Self-Help Program is a proven model. Across the United States over 35,000 homes have been built using this self-help model. In Montana alone, 109 homes have been built or are in the process of being built with the program. How Can I apply?If you are interested in applying to be a home owner through this project, you will need to fill out the pre-qualification application form (PDF format). Applicants must be low-income (80% of Median income). the chart below shows you the maximum amount you can earn in a year and still qualify for the program.
How can I help?The Mutual Self Help housing Program need volunteers. Families participating in the program are working families and each family commits to 32 hour of labor each week. They need the help of volunteers to meet the required labor hours to build their homes. Anyone over the age of 16 can help: individuals, church organizations, youth groups, and community service clubs. You don't have to know construction to help with the project. In addition to construction labor, families also need help with childcare and site clean-up. For more information about applying for the program or volunteering, please contact Paula Horsley or Diane Savasten Getten at 265-6743.
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This page last updated on
Monday, November 13, 2006 |
