ESSENTIAL COMPONENTS OF A FIRST-TIME HABITAT HOMEBUYER
We believe that everyone deserves a decent place to live, and that homeownership makes a difference—in communities, and families alike. Habitat for Humanity of New Castle County provides a hand-up not a hand-out to qualifying families who may not be able to qualify for traditional mortgage options. Our homeownership program is designed to prepare, educate, and assist individuals in their journey to becoming Habitat homeowners.
We understand that each family has different and unique circumstances; Habitat for Humanity of New Castle County looks at two important qualifications:
- Willingness to Partner
- Ability to Pay
Along with those 2 components there are other application requirements you should know while considering our program:
- Must be 21 years of age or older.
- Must live and/or work in New Castle County Delaware consecutively within the past year.
- Must provide verifiable and documented source of income for 12 Consecutive months.
- Must be willing to complete Sweat equity hours.
- Must have a minimum credit score of 620.
- Household Income must Fall within the HUD income guidelines.
Household size includes children residing in the home at least 50% of the time. Household income is calculated based on the gross income of all adults. The income is based on 35-80% of the current HUD Area Median Income (AMI) for New Castle County.
Family Size
Minimum Income
Maximum Income
Homeownership makes a difference.
what our families are saying
report seeing improvements in their neighborhood since their move-in
no longer receive government assistance
eat healthier meals as a family
are saving and/or investing the extra money
Register today for our Homebuyer Seminar 3/22
Ready to take the first step toward homeownership?
Join us for a FREE First-Time Homebuyer Seminar!
Sunday, March 22, 2026 | 2:00 – 4:00 PM
Rt. 9 Library & Innovation Center | 3022 New Castle Avenue, New Castle, DE 19720
You’ll learn about:
- Habitat’s 0% Mortgage Program
- Program requirements & application process
- Wealth building through homeownership
- Community impact & sustainable housing
Pre-registration is required!
New Construction
what properties are currently available?
To learn more about our program requirements, our designation process, benefits to you as a prospective homeowner and how to move forward please attend one of our FREE First-Time Homebuyer Seminar. Please click on a link below that works best for you. A new date will be added every 1st of the month. If you have any additional questions please contact: familyservices@habitatncc.org.
1st Time Homebuyer Program Fact Sheet
2200 Block of Lamotte Street, Wilmington, DE – two 3 bedrooms 1.5 baths
2200 Block of Carter Street, Wilmington, DE – five 3 bedrooms 1.5 baths
Here are a Few Who Can Help
OTHER RESOURCES:
If we are not the best fit for your current situation, these other organizations may be able to help: CLICK HERE
FAQs
Have a specific question? Reach out to our departments.
You can download the application by clicking the text here: HFHNCC Full Application Packet
Once you fill out the application, please print and submit in person at our home office at Habitat for Humanity of New Castle County, 1920 Hutton Street, Wilmington, DE 19802.
No. You can be a single person when applying for our homeownership program.
Yes. Anyone with verifiable income can apply for the homeownership program; however, they must fall with the HUD income guidelines.
No. However, we highly recommend and encourage all serious and interested person(s) to attend the seminar to learn more about our program qualifications, requirements, and benefits to the program. If you would like to apply without attending the seminar, please click below to download the pre-qualification application.
No. There is not a waiting list, we approve qualified applicants according to the current builds.
No. Volunteering is about the partnership with habitat for humanity which includes helping build your home and your neighbor’s home.
No. Each habitat has its own requirements and processes.
No. You would only apply if you were ready to live where we are currently building.
No. We understand that homelessness is increasing and that unforeseeable situations occur; however, our homeownership program is a partnership and takes time before you get your home.
No. Settlement cost is money that should be set aside to help cover the cost of going to settlement with an attorney.