This reduces the cost of the house, increases the pride of ownership among family members and fosters the development of positive relationships with other people. Prices will differ depending on location and the costs of land, labor and materials. The average length of a Habitat mortgage in the United States is 20 years. Families apply to local Habitat affiliates. A family selection committee chooses homeowners based on their level of need, their willingness to become partners in the program and their ability to repay the loan.
Every affiliate follows a nondiscriminatory policy of family selection.
Neither race nor religion is a factor in choosing the families that receive Habitat houses. Donations, whether to a local Habitat affiliate or to HFHI headquarters, are used as designated by the donor. Gifts received by HFHI headquarters that are designated to a specific affiliate or project area are forwarded to the designee. Any undesig- nated gifts are used where most needed overseas and for administrative expenses. HFHI's audited financial statement is available on request.