Habitat for Humanity Joins Midtown

Houston Habitat for Humanity Joins Midtown’s Affordable Housing Program

Houston Habitat for Humanity (HHFH) is bringing its unique approach to affordable homebuilding to the Midtown Redevelopment Authority/Center for Civic and Public Policy Improvement (MRA/CCPPI) affordable housing program. 

“We are excited to get started,” said Houston Habitat CEO Allison Hay, sharing the organization’s enthusiasm for this new partnership. We’ve been wanting to build in the Third Ward. It would be wonderful to attract buyers currently renting in the neighborhood.” 

Houston Habitat for Humanity’s Approach

HHFH’s approach is all-encompassing. It goes beyond construction, ensuring prospective buyers can confidently transition to homeownership. “Our buyers perform up to 250 hours of ‘sweat equity,’ which includes helping build homes, completing financial literacy classes, and learning about home maintenance and warranties. It’s a deep investment of their time,” Hay explained.

MRA provides land from its inventory in Third Ward, OST/South Union, and Macgregor to nonprofits and for-profit builders who pledge to use the parcels for affordable homes. HHFH has two 10,000-square-foot lots, one on Grace St. and the other on Ventura St. in Third Ward. The plans call for splitting the two lots into four lots for four new three-bedroom homes. 

HHFH accepts buyers earning 80% or below the Houston Area Median Income of $94,600. This lower income threshold sets HHFH apart from other MRA/CCPPI program builders, who accept buyers in the 80% to 120% bracket of the Houston Area Median Income. 

Hay emphasized the importance of community engagement, noting that they often recruit through churches, community centers, and local gatherings to ensure their outreach is broad and targeted to those needing homebuying assistance.

An Energy Efficient Home

HHFH’s commitment to quality is evident in the construction of its homes. They incorporate energy-efficient designs, ADA accessibility features, and robust building standards to withstand Houston’s weather. This approach ensures the homes are affordable, safe, and comfortable. “We don’t skimp, but we do make the mortgage more affordable. It’s a math problem that we solve,” said Hay.

Volunteers Needed

With construction beginning, Houston Habitat for Humanity will continue to rely on volunteers, including other nonprofits and corporate groups, to help with the building process. The community’s involvement is crucial, and the organization is hopeful for strong local support.

For those interested in becoming homeowners, the MRA and CCPPI websites provide more information about program eligibility. Find out how to qualify to own a home in a great location close to amenities. 

Our Builders

Agape Development
(346) 396-4380 or info@agapehomescdc.org

CR Design Build
(281) 822-0922 or charles@crdesignbuild.com

HBDI
(713) 845-2400 or m.mitchell@hbdi.org

Houston Habitat for Humanity
(713) 671-9993 or info@houstonhabitat.org

LIN Development
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Mayberry Homes
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New Hope Housing
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(800) 865-9871 or info@titaniumbuildersllc.com