Partner Family Program
Pre-Applications Are Available!
Our pre-applications are now available for families who are interested in applying for our new home build in Menomonie, which will be a twin home (two units). Pre-Applications are due March 31st, 2023. Click the download link below the pre-application. Applications can be returned to the address at the top of the application form, as well as e-mailed to our Affiliate Manager.
If you have any questions or problems with the application, please reach out to us at:
E-Mail: Affiliate Manager, elizabeth@cvh4h.org
Office Phone: 715-833-8993
This pre-application is specifically for families interested in the Habitat home in Menomonie, WI. If you are interested in a Habitat home in other parts of our service area, you can still fill out the contact form below to receive an Interest Form. Interest forms are available to fill out any time of year, and we will retain them for 12 months.
Home is in Your Hands
Our Partner Family program makes the dream of homeownership possible for many Chippewa Valley families. Having a safe, affordable home empowers a family to invest in a more secure future for themselves and their children.
The program allows qualified, low income, hardworking people in the Chippewa Valley to purchase a home. Financing is obtained from the USDA or local lending institutions. For qualified Partner Families, no downpayment is required.
How the Partner Family Program Works
At Chippewa Valley Habitat for Humanity, we’ve helped many families through our programs.
If you live in Buffalo, Chippewa, Dunn, or Eau Claire counties, please fill out the form below to receive more information about the Partner Family application process. We will send you the interest form, as well as answer any questions you may have about the program or process.
Homeowner Interest Form
There are times when we have more applicants than homes we can build. We’ve developed a needs-based scoring system that allows us to prioritize families facing the greatest need for affordable, safe housing.
Program applicants must be in need of housing due to one or more of the current following circumstances:
- Structurally substandard, unsafe or unhealthy living conditions
- Temporary housing or over-crowded living conditions
- Housing costs, including rent and utilities, exceeds 30% of your gross monthly household income
- Housing is inaccessible.
- Residence in subsidized or transitional housing (section 8, title 42)
Sources of Income
As part of the process, Chippewa Valley Habitat evaluates an applicant’s last two years of household income and debt. Applicants must be comfortable with a monthly mortgage payment set at 25-30% of their gross monthly income, and have enough income through stable employment, or other forms of permanent income to afford a home and all basic living expenses.
All income sources are included that are expected to last for three years or longer. Income includes all wages, unemployment (only if related to seasonal employment), social security, pension and/or disability. Income can also include child support, kinship care and other types of income received on a regular basis. Self-employment income is defined as the net profit. To accurately calculate your income, use this income calculator.
Improving Debt and Credit
An applicant’s credit history does not need to be perfect. In fact, many applicants have some debt. It is important to know how much is owed and for the total amount of debt to be manageable. It is recommended that applicants obtain a free copy of their credit report to ensure all credit is reported accurately.
All collection debt must have proof of active payment plans or be paid in full. Judgments for money must be satisfied. Visit Wisconsin Circuit Court Access to view public records. Bankruptcy or foreclosure must have been satisfied for at least 12 months.
Willingness to Partner
Applicants must be willing to work in partnership with Chippewa Valley Habitat’s team and maintain a positive and active involvement in the Homeowner Sweat Equity Program. Accommodations for health and employment concerns will be made on a case-by-case basis.
Applicants must be willing to complete 300 to 500 hours of sweat equity by:
- Working at a construction site
- Attending classes and workshops
- Volunteering at the Eau Claire ReStore
- Participating in Chippewa Valley Habitat events
Additional Applicant Requirements
- Divorce proceedings must be finalized.
- Applicants must provide valid documentation of Permanent Residency or Citizenship.
- Applicants must clear a criminal background check. Any conviction(s) which are recent and/or severe in nature will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Chippewa Valley Habitat is unable to serve applicants if any household member is a registered sex offender.
- All adults living together must apply together because Chippewa Valley Habitat Homebuyer program is income-based. Please contact Chippewa Valley Habitat about any exceptions.
- Wisconsin is a marital property state and Chippewa Valley Habitat requires married couples to apply jointly.
- All adult (over 18) household members must sign a general release for a background check and other verification.
Already Own but Need Help with Repairs?
If you’re concerned your existing home has your family living in an unsafe environment, Chippewa Valley Habitat offers a Home Repair Program. Designed to address issues such as lead paint or mold removal, leaky roof repair, bad plumbing, faulty wiring, or emerging hazards that potentially compromise safety, Chippewa Valley Habitat can help.
Let’s Talk
Our Family Services staff can work with you to provide appropriate resources. For more information, questions, and help, email our Affiliate Manager at elizabeth@cvh4h.org or call us at 715-833-8993.
