Habitat FAQs

  • Habitat for Humanity of Flathead Valley is an independent locally operated and funded affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International since 1989. Our mission is to build decent, affordable homes and provide homeownership opportunities to qualified families who live and work in Flathead County.

    These homes represent 74 families, 105 adults, and 156 children.

  • We provide homeownership opportunities to low-income, first-time buyers. We partner with families that need better housing, are able to pay an affordable mortgage, and willing to partner with Habitat to build their home and their neighbor's.

  • Our process is similar to the mortgage industry. First, an application from families in need of decent, affordable housing. Through the review process, the family must meet the following requirements:

    • Need for a decent, affordable home. Need is determined by a home evaluation with our Family Selection Committee.

    • Willingness to partner with Habitat, and investing with sweat equity, participating in financial education courses, and saving funds for upcoming closing costs.

    • Ability to pay an affordable mortgage to include taxes, insurance, and possible HOA dues. The ability to pay is determined by current rent, family size, income to include public assistance, debt, and credit history.

    Upon qualification, our Family Selection Committee reviews the family profile package and makes a recommendation for approval to our Board of Directors. Our families are supported throughout the process by the Habitat Family.

  • There are many ways you can volunteer. Volunteer at the Restore and turn donations into homes, help at the construction site-no experience necessary.

    Contact our Community Engagement Coordinator , Hilary Devin, at outreach@habitatflathead.org.

  • We provide the opportunity to receive a HAND-UP, not a hand-out. Houses are not given to anyone.

    Our homeownership program partners with families that earn 30-80% of the median income of the Flathead Valley.

    Qualifying applicants purchase their homes for a zero or low interest rate.

  • We build new homes that are basic, durable, and healthy for the lowest possible cost. We focus on energy efficiency and sustainable building techniques and materials.

  • The Habitat for Humanity of Flathead Valley ReStore is a home improvement store like no other and open to the public.

    We accept donations and sell a constantly changing inventory of diverse, high-quality merchandise to the public at a fraction of the retail price, while diverting reusable household items and building materials from area landfills.

    Sales of donated items help Habitat for Humanity build more homes in the Flathead Valley. It’s a great deal for you, your community and our environment.

  • Habitat depends on a variety of donations to continue moving forward with our mission. All donations: financial, construction materials, volunteer labor, ReStore donations, etc. help build decent, affordable homes for families.

    To learn more, see our Donation page.

  • Habitat for Humanity of Flathead Valley relies on gifts from individuals, corporations, and other groups to help families in need of decent and affordable homes. All donations of any amount are deeply appreciated.

  • Yes, we are a nonprofit Christian housing organization. However, we welcome and serve anyone who wants to be a part of our mission.

    We build with people in need regardless of race or religion. We welcome volunteers, homeowners, staff and supporters from all backgrounds.

  • Housing studies in the United States and Canada show affordable housing has no adverse effect on other neighborhood property values. In fact, Habitat houses have increased property values and local government tax income.

    Each new build provides local jobs and uses locally sourced materials whenever possible.

    The generosity of our local partners and community organizations do more than help build homes, they contribute to the improved wellness and vitality of entire community.