Owning a home means responsibility. Homeowners must pay bills and taxes keep up with maintenance and common repairs to the structure, HVAC, electrical, plumbing and more. Being timely with repairs to the home is beneficial in many ways, such as maintaining the highest levels of security and functionality, maintaining the property’s value, and preventing minor issues from becoming major problems, like a small leak becoming a whole wall teardown.
Sometimes, homeowners cannot afford repairs, and repair assistance is needed. Below is information about grant programs, tips for upkeep, senior home repair programs and veterans home repair grants. Bookmark the page and share this blog with anyone you think could benefit!
According to Consumer Affairs, plumbing and air conditioning systems are the top two most common fixes a Texas home needs. After those are refrigerators and smoke detectors, and lastly, general electrical and water heater issues. A 2021 survey found that 77% of new homeowners will experience an “unexpected issue” that needs repair during the first year of homeownership.
Deferred maintenance, or holding off on needed repairs, often becomes more expensive in the long run once the work becomes critical and needs to be done. Research shows that delaying maintenance can potentially increase costs by as much as 600%. Increasing costs aren’t the only issue; a lack of energy efficiency and possible safety hazards can arise when waiting on repairs. If you need time to figure out how to pay for home repairs, here are tips to decrease the impact of deferred maintenance.
A good way to save money overall is by doing minor fixes yourself. The internet has free, helpful step-by-step videos and instructions by the barrelful for easier and smaller tasks such as patching wall holes and cracks, fixing leaky faucets, and changing an electrical socket. These resources are available in a wide variety of languages and skill levels.
Once you feel more confident, visit a Houston ReStore to pick up affordable tools and materials for your project at a fraction of retail prices!
Another way Houston Habitat for Humanity provides assistance is through its active home repair program which preserves existing affordable homes for low-income individuals and families in Houston, TX. This home repair program is a big part of Houston Habitat’s mission and benefits the Houston community by slowing neighborhood character change or gentrification within the city.
The Housing Construction and Inspection services, within the Housing and Community Development of Harris County, provide financial and technical assistance to make emergency repairs to the homes of very low- to moderate-income homeowners at their primary residential property. Further, the Harris County Home Repair Program provides financial assistance via a grant or deferred payment loan to qualified homeowners needing major rehabilitation and repair or replacement of water wells and septic systems. Remember to review these government home repair grants and loans carefully before applying.
In Texas, seniors (those aged 65 years and older) benefit from property tax deferral, Medicare and Social Security options, senior community services such as AAA, and the Silver Alert program. Houston Habitat for Humanity also has a Senior Repair program. This provides effective and sustainable solutions for elderly homeowners to be able to age in their own comfortable homes. Houston Habitat uses the Housing Plus model and Aging in Place strategies when working with older adult homeowners. Housing Plus includes two assessments to ensure a complete understanding of the low-income senior population in Houston and Harris County.
Houston Housing Authority also offers assistance through the Old Adult Home Modification Program (OAHMP). OAHMP focuses on low-cost, high-impact house modifications such as the installation of adaptive equipment such as a temporary ramp, risers for chairs and sofas, non-slip strips for tub/shower or stairs, raised toilet seats and tub/shower transfer benches to enable older adults to remain safely in their homes. This program primarily relies on the expertise of a licensed occupational therapist to confirm the home modifications to address the individual’s specific needs and goals, while promoting full involvement in daily activities.
Houston Habitat is a proud member of the Habitat for Humanity Repair Corps. This means we offer repairs to the homes of low-income veterans as part of our dedication to supporting and honoring the veteran community. Our organization is generously funded by The Home Depot Foundation, which enables Houston Habitat for Humanity to help veterans build strength, stability, and independence through disabled veteran home repair help with owner-occupied homes. Another veteran perk: all U.S. veterans receive 10% off at both Houston Habitat for Humanity ReStore locations with a valid ID!
The Veterans Land Board also has a Home Improvement Program, which provides loans of up to $25K for repairs on Texas primary residences: single-family dwellings, condominiums, duplexes, triplexes, or four-plexes. These loans are available for veterans and military members who are over 17 years of age and a legal state resident, plus an active duty military member, a member of the Texas National Guard, a reserve component military member having completed 20 qualifying years for retirement, a veteran having served at least 90 active duty days unless discharged sooner due to a service-connected disability and not discharged dishonorably, or a surviving spouse of a Veteran listed as missing in action or whose death was service connected. Learn more on the Texas Veterans Land Board website, under ‘Loans’.
Check out our dedicated blog post about Home Repair Steps after Storm Damage. It lists information on how to assess damage, what permits are needed for reconstruction, and how to choose the best contractor for work outside of the do-it-yourself scope.
Planning and preparing for routine home repair is an important project that pays off in the long term. Before doing the repairs, check your eligibility for government-assisted programs and bookmark websites with free information on DIY home repairs. Easiest of all, follow our success stories and read more about Houston Habitat for Humanity Home Repairs to see what is best for your home and your family!
Habitat for Humanity is a community-focused organization with a mission to empower people to build a better future by building homes alongside volunteers, purchasing their homes with an affordable mortgage, and by completing financial and home maintenance training. One way in which Habitat has been in the news is due to the extended legacy of hands-on work by 39th President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter. Due to this close association, many wonder, did Jimmy Carter start Habitat for Humanity? No, but the Carters’ association and presence has benefited Houston Habitat tremendously, and even the city of Houston itself.
The year was 1984, and Jimmy Carter had been out of the White House for several years and was in New York City to speak at a local church. While there, he saw a nearby active Habitat for Humanity build site and stopped in to say hello, as he had volunteered with Habitat previously in Georgia. The Peach State is both the birthplace of Habitat for Humanity and the lifelong home of Jimmy Carter.
The New York City build site was experiencing difficulty due to a shortage of volunteers. In response, President Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, recruited a few dozen people and added the new volunteers plus themselves to the crew. These additional hands led to a swift finish and move-in day for 19 families. After that experience, the Carters personally worked alongside 103,000 volunteers in 15 different countries to repair, renovate, and build over 4,390 homes over the course of 35 years.
What is the Carter Work Project? The Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project is an annual Habitat for Humanity home-building event alongside its affiliates. Typically, the build event is within the United States but for several years included locations across the globe. Due to President Carter’s incredible passion for helping families own their first home, over 4,300 homes can be considered a “Carter House” today.
After the 2019 build in Nashville, the pandemic paused the event for three years, but in 2023, it was revived in Charlotte, North Carolina. Hundreds of volunteers, staff, and community members, as well as musicians Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood, plus future homeowners, worked over the course of five days building 20 homes on nine acres of land off Morris Field Drive, which was the location of an all-Black school that provided transformative educations educations and essential civic space for the Black community, from the early 1900s through the mid-1960s.
In 1998, Houston was the chosen location of the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project. An incredible group of around 6,000 volunteers combated the 110-degree heat to participate. Those who gave their time included 25 local prison inmates, six of whom were hired by the local Habitat affiliate after the completion of their sentences. Through these efforts led by Reverend Harvey Clemons, Jr., Houston Habitat became the first U.S. Habitat International affiliate to build 100 homes in one week by successfully completing the entire project.
On the 25th anniversary of Houston’s participation in the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project, residents still living in the homes shared photos and memories with residents still living in the homes shared photos and memories with news station KHOU-11. Wade and Shalina Gibson are among the original homeowners who worked side by side with Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter, as all Habitat homeowners have hands-on roles in building their homes. “He made us laugh, smile and when time to get serious, time to work, we got to work,” homeowner Wade Gibson recalled. “He was a real down-to-earth person, him and his wife. “The biggest lesson: Keep giving, keep loving, keep helping each other out,” Wade said. “And spread the love and do as much as you can to help out folks.” Fellow neighbor and Habitat homeowner Cheryl Crenshaw agreed, saying “They just came here with open arms, you know, they took pictures with us, they did things with us, they showed us things, they talked to us. You know, they did everything.”
Although the Carters themselves are no longer swinging hammers, the event continues in their honor. The 2024 Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project is planned for September 29 to October 4, 2024, in Twin Cities, Minnesota. The news was shared with a ceremonial passing of the hammer between Charlotte Region Habitat for Humanity and Twin Cities Habitat during the closing ceremony. “President and Mrs. Carter helped open doors for thousands of Habitat homeowners while advancing racial equity in housing,” said Chris Coleman, president and CEO of Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity. “It is an honor to be selected as host of the 2024 Carter Work Project and carry on the Carters’ inspiring legacy of service and generosity to others.”
If Minnesota is a little too far away or a bit too cold for you, come volunteer as an individual or a group with Houston Habitat for Humanity to help create affordable, quality shelters for more local families! There are three ways to become a Houston Habitat volunteer:
Houston Habitat awards The Presidential Volunteer Service Award to volunteers who achieve 100 or more hours in a calendar year. As an eligible Certifying Organization, Houston Habitat submits each volunteer’s hours who make milestones the previous calendar year. Join us today to grow your community, learn new skills, and contribute to a Texas legacy!
As mentioned in a previous blog post, the Houston hurricane season is underway and active until November 30th. There are many ways to be prepared for extreme weather, however, planning will never be able to prevent everything. Do you know what to do if your house is damaged by a storm? We’ve created a step-by-step breakdown of how to handle disaster repair.
Foremost, safety is a priority and prevents injury and fatigue, allowing more work and additional people to be helped. In order to safely begin home repair, confirm the building is structurally sound enough to have people inside, turn off water and electricity to affected areas, use only a flashlight in darkness, and wear protective items such as sturdy shoes, gloves, masks, and eye protection. Look out for slippery spots, broken items, and sharp edges. Also, remember to use caution and distance when moving debris.
After the storm has passed and official authorities have cleared residents to return to their homes, damage assessment begins. Start by looking for the most common types of storm damage. Keep in mind not all damage will be immediately noticeable. Be sure to document every change to your home with pictures and notes for insurance and repair purposes. Ensure your address is visible from the street for emergency vehicles.
The roof of a building is the most likely place to be battered by a storm. Common signs of roof damage are holes, leaks, dents, missing/broken shingles, and split seams. Windows and doors are a good second area to assess. Check for cracks, holes, broken panes and damaged frames. Next, investigate the appearance of exterior surfaces and appliances, such as air conditioners, for cavities, splits, dings, chips, and discoloration. Inside your home, identify signs of water damage, and any damage from water entering the home. After complete evaluation, contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report property damage. File a claim, ask about an advance payment or living expenses if help is needed quickly. If the disaster has been officially declared you may be eligible to apply for assistance from FEMA via their disaster assistance website.
Community is very valuable; having connections with neighbors can mean the difference between life and death for some. Many people are without family nearby or the ability to move around well. Consider providing reasonable senior assistance when possible or contacting city services for them. Assistance to veterans after a storm is also important. Another helpful action is connecting others with storm damage repair contractors.
Temporary solutions are a productive way to minimize further damage, as well as reduce stress. If able, begin key repair steps by doing some actions yourself. Use tarps and plastic sheeting to cover leaky areas, sandbags to divert water, and boards to secure broken windows and doors. Take out wet furniture, carpeting, and other materials, then remove water with wet vacuums and pumps. Next, run fans and dehumidifiers, as drying out the air will help prevent mold.
Save time and money by shopping for DIY materials at Habitat for Humanity’s two Houston ReStore locations: South Loop at 6161 S. Loop East, Tuesday through Saturday, 9 am—5 pm, Sunday 10 am—4pm, and ReStore West 34th at 5280 West 34th Street, Monday through Thursday, 9 am—5 pm and Friday through Saturday, 9 am—6 pm. ReStore has new and gently used items needed to secure and improve your home, including power tools, lumber, windows, flooring, and appliances.
To assist with quicker storm damage repair, the City of Houston Permitting Center & the Planning and Development Department has implemented an expedited review process of specific permits, including weatherheads for restoring power, re-roofing and roof overlay, and Minor Structural, Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) repairs. Also, the following work can be done without permits:
When making DIY repairs, maintain a list and save receipts (including for temporary living expenses) for your insurance agent. Don’t make permanent repairs before an adjuster sees all the damage. Further, save proof of paid deductibles. Contractors and roofers cannot offer to waive a deductible or promise a rebate for your deductible.
Be sure to take breaks, especially when the tasks or environment seem overwhelming. Walk around, get some fresh air, and focus on the improvements that are already complete. Above all else, ask for help when you need it!
Not every fix can be done in without professional help. This is when licensed and insured professionals are best. Houston Habitat provides storm damage restoration through our Disaster Home Repair program. Low-income homeowners can receive help with what is needed to make homes safe, sanitary and secure, including mold testing and remediation. Click here to find out more: Disaster Home Repair program.
Contractor Tips:
“There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure,” said Colin Powell. True words, especially when applied to advanced preparation for storm damage. Before the next weather event, do these actions:
The Houston hurricane season officially runs June 1st through November 30th. Keep in mind tropical storms and depressions are also dangerous. Some may be surprised to learn that the primary hazards of this season are flooding, tornadoes, and high surf and rip currents, in addition to destructive winds. It is also important to remember floodwaters can also contain threatening animals, harmful bacteria & chemicals, plus other dangerous objects.
Knowing the differences between alerts can save your family. Generally, a Watch means impacts are possible (Be Prepared) and a Warning means impacts are expected within 36 hours or happening now (Take Action). Make sure to have Wireless Emergency Alerts enabled on your phone to receive notifications as announcements can happen for hurricanes, tropical storms, storm surges, extreme wind, flash floods, and tornados.
Sign up for emergency information with AlertHouston, which delivers critical information to Houston residents regarding current conditions, expected impacts, and protective actions to keep themselves and others safe. Another precaution is the STEAR program, a free registry which provides local emergency responders and planners with additional information on Houstonians with access and functional needs. Registering will allow for additional assistance during an emergency event. STEAR is intended for those with limited mobility and sensory disabilities, as well as people who require personal care, transportation, or additional medical assistance during an emergency event.
Always follow evacuation orders from local authorities — don’t wait to see if the weather will improve. Even without a direct hit, other severe events may occur. Maintain a safe distance from flooded and damaged areas, and pay close attention to barriers and signs. If sheltering in-place, and the house becomes flooded, move to a higher level to escape flood waters. If the highest floor becomes dangerous, get on the roof and call 9-1-1. For wind protection, put as many walls as possible between yourself and the outside. An interior room without windows is the safest place to seek shelter in your home.
Best Home Prep
To help your home withstand storm impacts, trim greenery and seal wall cracks. Install storm/accordion shutters and/or impact glass. Stabilize the garage door. Next, have plywood, steel or aluminum panels on hand to board up windows and doors. Houston Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore is the perfect and a very affordable place to get ready for hurricane season! At the ReStore you can find materials to protect your home from weather damage.
When a Watch is issued, board up glass & doors and secure loose outdoor items. If ordered to evacuate, leave a note detailing plans, then unplug electrical equipment such as televisions and small appliances. Unplug refrigerators and freezers if there is a risk of flooding. If instructed to do so, shut off water, gas and electricity before leaving.
Tips & Checklist
Call for an insurance check-up to make sure you have coverage to repair or replace your home and/or belongings. Remember, home and renters’ insurance doesn’t cover flooding; a separate policy is needed. Act now before it is too late, as flood insurance requires a 30-day waiting period. During this process, document all possessions and serial numbers.
Develop an evacuation plan for your family and pets, then share it with close family and friends. Include emergency contacts, designated meeting places, and critical needs as well as out-of-town evacuation locations. A written version may be helpful as internet may not be accessible due to the storm. Make sure everyone in your household understands the plan and knows what to do. Formulate a business continuity plan for when disaster strikes and inform employees.
Check available storm shelter spaces designated by your city officials. Most public shelters only allow service animals, although Harris County does have shelters which allow pets, so have a Plan B for pets but do not leave them behind! It is ideal to pinpoint several sheltering options, including distant ones such as a friend’s home outside the impact area.
If using a vehicle to evacuate, ensure it has as much fuel as possible during the season. If not evacuating with a vehicle, move it to higher ground if time allows. If you don’t have a vehicle, check the news for details or call 3-1-1 to see available transportation options. Often, the City of Houston has state-sponsored buses to carry people out of potentially dangerous areas.
Whether evacuating or sheltering-in-place, you’re need supplies to get through the storm and for the potentially lengthy and unpleasant aftermath. Our Houston Habitat ReStores are a great place to visit to get disaster supplies while shelves are still stocked (enough to last each person in your family a minimum of 3 days), then keep them in a safe, accessible place in your home:
Be a Team Player
Help neighbors, especially the elderly and other vulnerable people. This can be done ahead of time by sharing tools and tasks, and by offering to assist in evacuating to a safe place. Communicating the latest forecast information with your community is also invaluable. To save money, make bulk purchases of necessary items with neighbors, friends or coworkers.
After the Storm
Did you know nearly half of hurricane fatalities occur after the storm according to NOAA? When weather returns to normal, it can seem safe to return home, however, ONLY return home when officials say it is safe. Be aware of loose power lines, gas leaks, structural damage, and dangerous debris. If inside your home you hear shifting or unusual noises, or you smell gas, go outside and call 9-1-1. Do not enter floodwaters or drive on flooded roads – only 12 inches of water can float a car. Bridges and roads could be damaged too, putting you at risk during your commute home.
When cleaning up after the storm, take breaks, stay hydrated and check on neighbors. Never use a generator inside, even with open doors and windows due to carbon monoxide poisoning. Throw away food that got wet or warm; remember when in doubt, throw it out! The health department will provide information about drinking water safety. Also, disinfect everything.
Finally, bad feelings, stress, and anxiety are all normal after a disaster. Healthy eating and enough sleep help deal with stress. Call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 for free to talk to someone if you are experiencing mental distress.
Before Next Hurricane Season
In December, mark calendars for the 2025 Emergency Preparation Supplies Sales Tax Holiday, which occurs before Texas hurricane season begins. During this weekend, purchases of certain emergency preparation supplies are tax free. There is no limit on purchase, and no exemption certificate is needed. Exempt item examples are emergency ladders and hurricane shutters at less than $300 and radios, first-aid kits, and carbon monoxide detectors at less than $75. This is also the perfect time to gift preparedness like electronics chargers, solar lamps and other emergency kit items to friends and family. Ultimately, the most important preparation is to “evaluate your specific needs and consider how to best prepare for them.”
Current Habitat for Humanity homeowners, those who have applied to Houston Habitat, and those who are interested in becoming a homeowner are a diverse community. Families, veterans, seniors and refugees who all come from different backgrounds and experiences yet are alike in their passion for homeownership. After working closely with Houston Habitat for Humanity staff and putting in their sweat equity, owning a home becomes a reality. And each homeowner’s relationship with Habitat extends past home purchase. Houston Habitat for Humanity stays connected to homeowners with follow-up engagement, commonly known as Post Purchase Support.
Maintaining a home requires responsibility, knowledge, and resources. Houston Habitat understands the challenges of being a homeowner, so we work to help before, during, and after the purchase process. Post-Purchase Support begins when someone officially becomes a homeowner and is focused on financial education, homeowner resources, and community support. Use of post purchase resources makes for successful long-term homeownership and is a key part of the Habitat homebuyer process.
Once qualifying, applying, building, and house closing is complete, a colorful ribbon is cut and a homeowner is officially made! After this point, all Habitat homeowners must pay their mortgage and bills each month. This is also the time when post-purchase support begins. Houston Habitat staff provide homeowner assistance with understanding property taxes and how to purchase homeowners insurance, as well as ongoing mortgage questions, access to resources for financial services, repair, and community education.
Everyone needs help understanding the best ways to utilize their money. With this in mind, Houston Habitat for Humanity integrated financial education and referral resources into its post-purchase support. Houston Habitat offers information about ways to prevent mortgage default, such as foreclosure prevention and avoiding predatory lending, identity theft and credit card fraud. Assistance with refinancing, delinquency, and crisis situations is also offered.
A home of your own is a wonderful thing and keeping it as new as when it was built takes effort. Houston Habitat for Humanity provides checklists plus guidance on maintenance and basic repairs, as well as information about energy conservation, regional landscaping and seasonal upkeep. Home warranty coverage is very accessible and comes in increments of 1 year, 5 years, and 10 years. A listing of recommended contractors is also offered to homeowners as well as personal assistance with homeowner associations (HOAs). Some Habitat homeowners even qualify for minor repair programs funded by grants.
For the DIYers, Houston has two ReStore locations with cost-effective materials and supplies for maintaining a home. These home improvement stores sell new and like-new furniture, lighting, glass, paint, plumbing, roofing, tools, doors, fans, windows and more at lower-than-average retail prices. We post regular promotional codes for extra savings – follow us on Instagram!
The third tier of post purchase support is the connection between community engagement and homeowners. Houston Habitat for Humanity aids with clean-up days and revitalization projects, such as neighborhood fencing and building neighborhood gardens like the Settegast Community Garden.
Habitat events are popular too: for example, year-round home dedication ceremonies and autumn Truck or Treat gatherings are open to all to attend! What’s more, many homeowners choose to volunteer with Habitat on future builds, while continuing to spread the word to others about Habitat services. Some seasoned homeowners have even offered to assist new families with the process!
Houston Habitat for Humanity truly backs homeowners, beginning from the very first inquiry. Ready to start? Take the eligibility quiz. Have a Habitat home and need financial education, homeowner resources, or community support? Reach out to us directly to request support or plan to attend a Post Purchase Workshop. Your homeownership success is our priority!
Sources:
Despite a devasting storm blowing through Houston two days prior, Saturday, May 18th, Houston Habitat for Humanity hosted the grand opening of Robins Landing, our new, mixed-income community and development featuring affordable home prices and highly coveted amenities. If you were unable to make it to the party, here’s a recap of the exciting day, along with information on how to tour a model home and apply to become a homeowner in this beautifully designed neighborhood.
Located in Northeast Houston and developed by Houston Habitat for Humanity, Robins Landing is the city’s first affordable master-planned community which is also walkable and transit-friendly. Created for mixed-incomes and all generations, homeownership of these beautiful high-quality, energy efficient homes include access to essential services as well as onsite green spaces and trails. The 127-acre community of Robins Landing is planned to include over 460 single-family homes and up to 500 apartments and senior housing units.
The family-friendly grand opening had model homes open for touring, plantis for the taking, live music playing, local food trucks with delicious treats, and a resource fair for all attendees. Kids happily enjoyed the onsite playground and got their faces painted in all sorts of creative ways! This event celebrated the opening of the first section of the Robins Landing community, which is designed specifically to be affordable to people of all incomes. “This used to be nada, nothing,” said Houston Habitat’s chief executive, Allison Hay, as she led a tour of the subdivision which, until recently, was unused land filled with weeds, grasses and forest.
Work began on this Houston Habitat land in February 2022. Today, there are sidewalks, picnic tables, a pond and pavilion, and freshly laid streets which are being enjoyed by the families who have already moved into their new homes here. Currently, Habitat homes that are available at Robins Landing are single floor homes that consist of three and four bedrooms with an attached car garage and a nice fenced yard. 3 and 4-bedroom single family homes with attached two-car garages are available. Robins Landing is a project which goes beyond city of Houston requirements; designed with extensive community input and knowledge from past experiences, residents can expect capable stormwater infrastructure, a childcare center, healthcare, banking, a library and further community-supporting services. Also a resilience hub, which will be a space for residents to obtain necessary services like food assistance and community education, and to connect with resources during emergencies like extreme heat, flooding, and/or power outages.
Planning for Robins Landing features include trail connections to nearby parks, a fruit and nut orchard, a commercial-grade community kitchen for residential rental, and a branch of the Houston Public Library. These endeavors are tied to Houston Habitat’s commitment to sensibly priced commercial real estate as well as reasonably priced homes where families can flourish. Plans are underway for a bank, a health clinic, and a makerspace.
Out of the 468 single-family homes, 100 will serve those who make as little as 50% of the area median income(AMI) up to 80% AMI. Three hundred homes will be affordable to families making up to 120% AMI or up to $90,800 for a family of two. The median household income in the census tract is roughly $37,000, according to census estimates. Additionally, 68 single-family homes will be sold at market rates, which are currently around $225,000 to $330,000 for homes in area newly developed subdivisions, according to Community Builders Advisory Services, which collects data on new construction.
By carefully choosing materials and energy efficient building methods, Houston Habitat builds homes that are safe, healthy, environmentally friendly and have low costs to own and maintain. Habitat homes have nine-foot ceilings, energy-efficient appliances and a wheelchair-friendly design, such as ramps inside the garage, three-foot-wide doors and reinforced walls where homeowners could install grab bars. Further, the homes are Energy-Star certified and utilize Fortified roof standards.
Robins Landing is located on Tidwell Road, east of Mesa Drive and inside Beltway 8, nestled between the lush Harris County Greens Thicket and Houston’s newly renovated Brock Park. Associated Houston ISD Schools are North Forest High School, Forest Brook Middle School, Hilliard Elementary School, and Fonwood Early Childhood Center. Associated KIPP Schools are KIPP Legacy Preparatory School, KIPP Northeast College Preparatory, KIPP Polaris Academy for Boys, and KIPP Voyage Academy for Girls.
Houston Habitat for Humanity purchased raw land and added infrastructure for the entire project, including clearing and grading, installing sewers and utilities, and creating streets, curbs, residential building lots, and commercial pad sites. Robins Landing is designed to meet standards derived from Atlas 14, the post-Harvey rainfall study which interprets historical data to predict future rainfalls. These standards, which are implemented throughout the project’s development, exceed the City of Houston’s building code requirements, will not contribute to more flooding, and aim to help mitigate future potential flooding.
Everyone deserves a decent, affordable place to call home plus reasonable access to the resources needed to successfully live, work, and play throughout their life. Through Houston Habitat’s homeownership program, families obtain affordable homeownership, which creates an environment of strength, stability and independence. See if you are eligible to purchase a Houston Habitat home, learn about the steps and begin your application to become a Houston Habitat Homeowner. Your place in Robins Landing awaits!
Sources:
After dreaming of homeownership, the next step is making it a reality, which can be confusing. Many questions pop up for those beginning the process, like how much do you have to put down on a house? What to know about buying a house in Texas? What is a “First-Time Home Buyer”? Where to find home buying help in Texas?
Houston Habitat for Humanity is here to support you! Below is a guide to available homeowner down payment assistance programs in Texas.
If you are, or would like to be, a good place to start is to see if you qualify for a first-time homebuyer program, loan or assistance. Two major benefits of being a first-time homebuyer is that requirements are typically more flexible than traditional programs, and many options are available.
The average listing price for homes in Houston was $334,000 in February 2024. That number dropped 3.2% year-over-year, according to realtor.com. At today’s home prices, making a down payment in Houston, Texas might cost $10,020 for 3% down payment, or $66,800 for 20% down payment.
Texas has its own homeownership assistance programs and grants designed especially for those who call the Lone Star state home.
● Houston Habitat for Humanity – through volunteer labor, builds and rehabilitates houses for families in need. Start here to see who is eligible to apply!
● NACA – provides comprehensive counseling and access to its Best in America mortgages for affordable homeownership for low-to-moderate income people.
● Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs programs help moderate- and low-income families achieve homeownership in Texas via two programs: My First Texas Home program and the My Choice Texas Home loan.
The Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation (TSAHC) is a nonprofit organization created by the Texas Legislature to help Texans achieve homeownership. The “Home Sweet Texas” Home Loan Program starts with an eligibility quiz, then information about qualifying TSAHC programs. The next step is contacting an area participating lender and links for applying for a mortgage interest tax credit. These DPA programs are down payment assistance Texas grown!
A down payment is the money paid upfront to complete a real estate sale. Down payments are typically a percentage of a home’s purchase price and can range from 3% – 20% for a primary residence. For example, if a home costs $100,000 and a down payment of 5% is required, then $5,000 must be paid at the time of purchase.
Down payment assistance (DPA) is a general name for financial help for homebuyers. These programs reduce the amount needed to be saved for a home’s down payment. Available options for DPAs include loans for repayment with low or no interest, forgivable loans, and monetary gifts which never have to be repaid.
The City of Houston Housing and Community Development provides a no-interest, forgivable loan (secured by a lien) of up to $50,000 to income-qualified residents for first-time homebuyers inside the city limits through their Homebuyer Assistance Program.
Qualifications to be met are household income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income, first-time homebuyer (or have not owned a home in the last 3 years), U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and the home for purchase be eligible to pay taxes to the City of Houston. The loan is fulfilled if the buyer lives in the home for five years.
Another option is through the Harris County Community Services Department’s down payment assistance, which assists with home buyers looking in the unincorporated areas of Harris County; this support excludes homes within the official cities of Houston, Baytown, or Pasadena. Qualifying criteria includes a credit score of 580 and successful completion of an 8-hour homeownership education course.
Houston Habitat for Humanity homes “will be in these areas in the near future”, according to Cassandra Robinson-Bacon, Homeowner Services Director. Learn more at a Virtual Home Ownership Fair and get ahead of the curve with this option!
Special programs are set up for service professionals such as teachers (Pre-K through 12th grade), law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians. The Good Neighbor Next Door program, overseen by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), works with these groups to buy a home in a “revitalization area” for 50 percent off and live in it for at least three years.
TSAHC has a similar program for school teachers, teacher aides, school librarians, school counselors, and school nurses, plus police officers and public security officers, firefighters and EMS personnel, veterans or active military, county jailers, peace officers, correction officers and juvenile corrections officers, public security officers, and nursing faculty and allied health faculty. The “Homes for Texas Heroes” Program is a gift with no repayment needed and no requirement to live in the home for a minimum time.
For veterans and service members, the Veterans Land Board Housing Assistance Program (VHAP) could provide low-interest loans to buy a home or land. VLB loans frequently do not require a down payment. If the loan term is between 15 and 30 years, up to $726,200 can be borrowed, and veterans with a VA disability score of 30% or higher are eligible for lower interest rates. Property criteria applies, such as a construction finish date of at least five years for a multi-family property.
Native American veterans and their spouses may be eligible for the Native American Direct Loan (NADL). The NADL program has no down payment requirement, limited closing costs, and a low-interest, 30-year fixed mortgage. This loan type is also a reusable benefit, meaning you can get more than one NADL to buy, build, or improve another residence in the future.
Everyone can benefit from more knowledge! Online resources are offered to anyone looking for more information.
Examples can be found at the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs; this course walks through three important phases of the home buying process: preparing for homeownership, financing and purchasing. The Texas Mortgage Credit Certificate is also offered. This may allow for a valuable tax credit when applying for a mortgage.
Houston Habitat for Humanity has a very helpful Virtual Homeownership Fair, which answers many questions and provides valuable resources. Further, Houston Habitat for Humanity can assist with many tasks connected to homeownership, even improving credit scores!
If you’ve cooked a meal, fixed a car, or hosted a party, you know planning makes for a better outcome. The same is true for building houses. Habitat for Humanity has made it a priority to make homes sustainable and resilient for families.
Two strategies are especially applicable to Houston: creating energy efficient homes and resilient construction. Houston Habitat for Humanity builds with these goals in mind to ensure homes keep heating and cooling bills low, while also withstanding Houston’s extreme weather eventss. Planning with efficiency and resiliency in mind is beneficial to communities, as it maximizes affordability and allows for easier repair and rebuilding.
Through careful consideration of materials and calculated building methods, Houston Habitat builds energy efficient homes which are also environmentally friendly, safe, and low cost-to-own and maintain for Houston homeowners.
Houston Habitat for Humanity is proud to offer homes with the ENERGY STAR® certification. The ENERGY STAR certification shows your new home has been designed and built to standards well above other homes in the market today. Houston Habitat homes feature better quality, comfort, durability. The ENERGY STAR certification also means your new home is of higher value, and is an increased investment for tomorrow, as this label indicates an improved process of inspections, testing, and verification to meet the strict requirements set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA. In fact, Houston Habitat for Humanity is so committed to sustainability, we have earned numerous awards for sustainable building practices, including Energy Star Partner of the Year/ Sustained Excellence awards, since 1996.
According to ENERGY STAR, the typical US household spends over $2,000 annually on utility bills. In Houston, the average annual electricity bill is $2,705.04. Homes with ENERGY STAR certification often see 30% energy efficiency savings compared to a standard home – in Houston, Habitat homeowners could save up to $800 a year!
ENERGY STAR certification is better for the environment too. Most electricity comes from nearby power plants, which burn natural gas and coal. A byproduct of this process is the release of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, which contribute to climate change. The emissions from these power plants also contribute harmful pollutants to the air such as sulfur dioxide, particulate matter, and nitrogen oxides. Reducing the necessary electricity in your home decreases power plant production which lessens damaging emissions.
Wondering how our builders make a home energy efficient? It is a multi-step process. Because Houston experiences heavy rains and persistent humidity, which can damage foundations and structures, gutters are important to redirecting water away. DuPont Tyvek Home Wrap is also used to protect against mold and condensation. Radiant barrier roof decking reflects radiant heat away from the attic, reducing the hours of run time for the air conditioning system. Insulation is rated by an “R” rating; Houston Habitat installs high “R” factor insulation, which also lowers energy consumption and energy bills. Double pane windows are mounted to prevent heat loss, and use of low VOC (volatile organic compounds) paint is a very important aspects of energy efficient Habitat construction.
Habitat for Humanity’s home resiliency connects closely with energy efficient building practices, as its aim is to keep homes affordable. Hurricanes, floods, and other natural disasters are unavoidable, but we can utilize materials to protect our homes.
Houston Habitat utilizes Fortified standards as one of the ways to keep home maintenance affordable long term. The Fortified program is a listing of construction recommendations from the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety which can dramatically reduce the damage a home suffers in a storm. Some examples are anchor bolts and oriented strand boards to protect against strong straight-line winds, which arrive during thunderstorms. Also used are hurricane straps, which secure the frame of the roof to the rest of the house and reduce the chances of the roof being removed by high winds. In an interview with Allison Hay, Chief Executive Officer at Houston Habitat for Humanity, she specifically noted that Robins Landing “homes will be elevated, our homes will have hurricane straps that will keep them from hurricane winds. We want to ensure that Robins Landing is resilient.” Habitat also offers homeowner resources, technical assistance and training to improve the resilience and durability of their homes.
As an international organization, Habitat for Humanity is committed to prioritizing climate resilient housing throughout the world. As a local organization, Houston Habitat for Humanity works to build a Houston where everyone has a place to call home; we also strive for sustainability and resilience for our homebuyers and our planet through build and repair methods to our work recycling, upcycling and reusing with the community through Habitat ReStores. We carefully consider FEMA Flood mapping (seen here) and the ever-evolving Houston Flood map (seen here) when selecting where to build in Houston.
Resilient and energy efficient communities boast many features outside of residential buildings which work towards the mission. One very important aspect, especially for Houston, is the use of retention ponds. These ponds are not for swimming or fishing, rather they serve as a holding place for stormwater when it falls quickly and heavily. These detention basins store this water instead of allowing it to flow as it falls, turning into damaging floodwaters. This temporary pond holds water until the channels can safely carry it away. Because Harris County is quite flat, most stormwater storage has to be created. New developments, such as Robins Landing, often use retention ponds to keep residents and their homes safe from harm.
Here are five ways you can reduce energy consumption at home right now.
The mission of Habitat for Humanity is to build and improve the places people call home.
By committing to careful planning, Houston Habitat creates energy efficient and resilient houses which are affordable through reasonable mortgages and lowered maintenance costs in Houston, Texas. Learn more about Houston Habitat’s homeownership program today!
