building strength
and stability in
the copper country
Copper Country Habitat for Humanity partners with local families to create affordable paths to homeownership — right here in our community
your journey to homeownership starts here
Partner with us
Start by submitting a short pre-application. If eligible, you'll be invited to complete the full process with support from our team.
Help build your home
As part of your journey, you’ll complete homeownership classes and contribute “sweat equity” — helping to build your home and your financial stability.
Move in and thrive
Once construction is complete and your mortgage is finalized, you’ll become the proud owner of a safe, stable home — one you helped create.
who qualifies for a new home build?
We partner with individuals and families who are ready for the responsibility of homeownership and willing to partner in the building process.
Am I elgible?
You have a need for safe, decent, and affordable housing
You have steady income and can afford an affordable monthly mortgage payment
You’re willing to contribute “sweat equity” to help build your home and attend required trainings
You live or work in Houghton, Baraga, or Keweenaw County
Income Guidelines
Income limits vary by household size and by county. We serve Houghton, Baraga, and Keweenaw Counties.
Here’s a general example (50–80% of Area Median Income):
1-person household: $30,900 – $49,900
2-person household: $35,300 – $56,450
3-person household: $39,700 – $63,500
we’re here each step of the way
Pre-Application & Full Application
Start your journey by submitting a short pre-application. If eligible, you'll complete a full application with our team’s support.
Program Elibility & Mortgage Pre-approval
We’ll review your financial picture to determine eligibility and help you get pre-approved for an affordable mortgage. We work with a variety of loan programs and lenders such as USDA Rural Development, Veterans Association, and more to help you find the most affordable options.
Application Review & Approval Process
After submitting your full application, our executive staff and Board of Directors will thoughtfully review your information and may meet with you and your family. If approved, you’ll continue through the program with support every step of the way as you work toward homeownership.
Education, Counseling & Sweat Equity
This phase is about learning and building. You'll complete homeownership and financial education classes, and put in sweat equity — which includes helping build homes, volunteering in the ReStore, or other approved activities. It’s not about construction experience — it’s about partnership, growth, and pride in what you’re building.
Mortgage Closing & Move-In
This phase is about learning and building. You'll complete homeownership and financial education, and put in sweat equity — which includes helping build homes, volunteering in the ReStore, or other approved activities. It’s not about construction experience — it’s about partnership, growth, and pride in what you’re building.
ready to apply?
Next Application Period:
TBD
We are currently not accepting new applicants at this time. Please contact with any questions.
If you’re interested in partnering with Copper Country Habitat for Humanity to become a future homeowner, the first step is to complete the pre-application form.
By filling out this form we will be able to determine if you are likely to meet our basic qualifications prior to beginning the full application process.
You may also pick up this application at our ReStore locations.
Turn in Application:
In Person - Our Main Office located at 47298 M-26, Houghton, MI 49931
By Email - contactus@copperh4h.org
By Mail - PO Box 231, Houghton, MI 49931
FAQs
-
No — a high credit score isn’t required. We look at the full picture of your financial habits, including non-traditional credit like rent, utilities, and phone bill payments. Even if your score is low or you don’t have traditional credit, you may still qualify based on consistent payment history and your ability to afford a monthly mortgage.
-
Yes! Habitat partners with individuals and families of all types. Whether you're a single parent, retired, disabled, or don't have children, you may still qualify if you meet our program’s basic criteria.
-
We work with all abilities. Sweat equity includes more than just building — you might help in the office, with community events, or other tasks that support your future home.
-
The process from application to moving in can take 12–24 months, depending on funding, construction, and homeowner readiness. We strive to get you in your new home as soon as possible!
-
No — Habitat homes are not free. Homeowners purchase the home with an affordable mortgage and contribute sweat equity during the building process. Our goal is to prepare you not only for homeownership, but also to strengthen your understanding of finances so you're ready for long-term success.
-
We build homes based on land availability. If selected, you’ll be offered a specific lot or project when your home is scheduled for construction. But we will try to ensure your location is convenient for your work, school, etc.
-
Our homes include the basics: energy-efficient appliances, essential fixtures, and durable materials. Features vary slightly by project, but all homes are built for long-term safety and comfort.