Own Your Habitat Home

Idaho Panhandle Habitat for Humanity (IPHFH) builds homes in Bonner County for low- to moderate-income families in need of safe, affordable housing. Partner families are required to:

  • Save for a low down payment

  • Contribute sweat equity hours toward building their home and other Habitat projects

  • Maintain steady employment and income

  • Pay past bills and obligations on time

  • Purchase the home upon completion through a low interest mortgage, provided all conditions are met

Additional eligibility requirements include:

  • Currently facing housing challenges

  • Have lived or worked in Bonner County for at least two years

  • Meet Habitat income guidelines

  • Participate in budgeting, home repair, and maintenance training, and other homeownership classes

In addition to new home construction, Idaho Panhandle Habitat for Humanity supports housing stability through repair programs and neighborhood improvement projects. These initiatives help preserve and strengthen communities across Sandpoint and Bonne

How Habitat Works

  1. Apply – Applications for the 2025 home are not yet open. When available, the “Home Ownership Application” link will appear above.

  2. Credit/Background Check – A credit/background check is required. Fees are $50 for singles and $100 for couples.

  3. Qualifications – The Family Selection Committee reviews all applications to assess housing need, ability to repay a mortgage, and willingness to partner.

  4. Home Visit – Qualified families receive a home visit from the Family Selection Committee.

  5. Selection – After visits, one family or individual is chosen to receive the home.

  6. House Construction & Sweat Equity – Selected families begin contributing sweat equity hours:

    • 300 hours for single parents

    • 500 hours for couples
      Families also complete a budgeting course, establish a savings habit, and save at least $1,000 for closing costs. The process from selection to move-in generally takes about 18 months.

  7. Closing – Once the home is complete, families sign a 30-40 year low-interest mortgage. Monthly payments vary depending on the home’s cost and the family’s ability to pay.

Habitat for Humanity Principles

  1. All local Habitat work demonstrates the love of God in Jesus Christ by meeting housing needs.

  2. Habitat relies entirely on donors and volunteers; no government funds are involved.

  3. Each homeowner has two volunteer partners from the Family Selection Committee to guide them, arrange schedules, and provide support.

  4. The local Habitat committee is ecumenical, with representatives from businesses, churches, and the community.

  5. Homes are built with no profit

  6. Families are selected through an objective, non-discriminatory process.

  7. Homes are simple, decent dwellings built within the family’s ability to repay.

  8. Homeowner payments are used to build more homes for families in need.

For assistance or general information, email us or call (208) 265-5313.