Over the past week, Muth & Company Roofing has been busy assisting with the 2018 Home Repair Blitz, sponsored by Habitat for Humanity – MidOhio. We are excited to be a part of Habitat’s 2018 plan, which includes making repairs to dozens of local homes! Here are some myths that many people still believe about this special organization.
Myth 1: They give away homes.
False. Habitat for Humanity believes in a hand up not a hand out. For this reason, homes are not given away; rather the future homeowner pays for the home in multiple ways. First, they must submit an application, showing they are a first-time homebuyer, and currently rent substandard housing. In determining substandard housing Habitat uses HUD guidelines; view them here: https://www.hud.gov/. Next, the family must be willing to partner with Habitat through 250 hours of sweat equity, working on the project, as well as completing financial literacy and homeowner maintenance classes. Thirdly, they cannot be upside down in debt. Finally, they will agree to pay, month after month, an affordable mortgage to Habitat based on their income.
Myth 2: Building or repairing the homes is completed at no cost to Habitat.
False. Habitat volunteers cannot complete certified work; therefore, certified contractors must do the roofing, plumbing and electrical work. This ensures that the home will meet permit requirements. Even though many of these contractors give free or discounted services, money must still be exchanged in order for everyone to continuing doing what they love. This is why Muth is proud to work with GAF in giving away two free roofs a year, as well as completing many other projects for Habitat throughout the year!
Myth 3: The only thing Habitat does is build homes.
False. Habitat is a complex organization. Habitat acts as a developer, building homes. As a bank, creating and maintaining mortgages. As a volunteer organization, handling over 6,000 volunteers who volunteer over 70,000 hours a year. Finally, they run the Habitat Restore, a brick-and-mortar retail store selling all things for the home.
Stay Tuned for More!
To learn more about the Habitat Restore, stay tuned early next week for our third and final Habitat blog.