HARLINGEN — A local nonprofit organization is in search of a family in need of a new home.
Habitat for Humanity of the Rio Grande Valley’s Housing Ownership Program will host a homebuyer workshop Saturday, Aug. 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the United Way of Northern Cameron County in Harlingen.
The nonprofit, in partnership with the City of Harlingen Affordable Housing Program, is in the process of building two homes in Harlingen for families presenting a need.
One family has already been selected, however the nonprofit is still in search of one more.
The remaining house available will be located at 315 West Washington Avenue in Harlingen.
According to Habitat for Humanity RGV Director of Mortgage and Family Services Hansel Ibarra, the nonprofit’s intent is to complete the homes by January.
Ibarra explained that if a family were to submit an application, they have to be willing to relocate to that location.
If not, they will have to wait until a location is available elsewhere.
Interested applicants are able to stop by anytime during the workshop.
At the workshop, attendees will learn about the application process, where the nonprofit plans to build and what qualifications they look for in their homeowners.
“I encourage interested families to come visit,” Ibarra said. “You don’t necessarily have to be applying. If you just want to learn more about the program, you’re more than welcome to come to the meeting.”
According to Ibarra, the nonprofit looks for families every six months on a first-come, first-served basis.
“If you’re interested, don’t think about it too much and go through the program,” Ibarra advised. “The worst thing that can happen is I say no, but if I do say no, I’ll explain what you can do in order to qualify. Families can reapply as many times as they like.”
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Orientation topics
• Building locations
• Application process
• Homeowner qualifications
Habitat homeowner benefits
• Affordable interest rates (availability of partial grants to help with the purchase)
• Low monthly mortgage payments
• A new two- to three-bedroom home
• New energy efficient appliances, such as a stove, refrigerator and water heater
WHAT — Habitat for Humanity Ho
WHAT — Habitat for Humanity Homebuyer Workshop
WHEN — Today from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
WHERE — United Way Northern Cameron County, 320 East Harrison Avenue, Harlingen
