What is the Homebuyer program and why do I have to do it?

All buyers participate in our Homebuyer Program, which includes homeownership education, financial counseling, and volunteer hours. This process prepares buyers for long-term success and reflects the values of partnership and shared investment.

What are HIP-hours, and why do I have to do them?

HIP-hours are the time buyers invest in their homeownership journey. Individual applicants must complete 75 hours within the 60–90 days before closing. Couples must each complete 75 hours, totaling 150 hours. Activities may include volunteer work, required financial literacy courses, community participation, and other homeowner education.

Are there deed restrictions on these homes?

Yes. Many existing homes—including the current townhomes—include deed restrictions that help preserve affordability over time. These details are fully explained during the application and closing process. For questions about particular homes, please reach out to Jeffrey@habitatmatthews.org

Can I sell my home in the future?

Yes, but resale must follow the terms outlined in the deed restrictions. This often includes resale price limits and requirements that the buyer meet certain income criteria, helping to ensure the home continues serving a family in need of affordable housing.

Fast-Track Homebuyer Program

Homebuyer Program

Affordable homes available for purchase.

Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity offers limited-income families the opportunity to purchase not only newly constructed homes, but also select existing homes made affordable through community partnerships.

Like all Habitat homebuyers, purchasers of existing homes are active participants in the process. Through our Home Buyer Program, individuals and families prepare for long-term success by completing homeownership education, financial coaching, and volunteer requirements through our Homebuyer Program.

These homes are sold at an affordable price with favorable financing options—providing a pathway to homeownership that builds strength, stability, and independence. Whether newly built or existing, each Habitat home offers a foundation for a brighter future.

Cadia Applications

Fast-Track Greater Matthews Habitat Homebuyers must:

Meet income requirements

Applicants must qualify for financing through our third-party lending partner, which helps establish the minimum required income based on ensuring that the monthly mortgage payment does not exceed 30% of gross income. At the same time, the household income must remain below a maximum limit set by our municipal and developer partners to preserve long-term affordability.

Be able to close within a designated time line.

Applicants must be prepared to close within 30-60 days of selection, including ability to pay closing costs. (Though the time between acceptance and closing may be longer.

Have a willingness to partner

All buyers are required to complete HIP-hours as part of the Homebuyer Program. Individual applicants must complete 75 hours within the 60–90 days leading up to closing. For couples applying together, each person must complete 75 hours, for a combined total of 150 hours during the same pre-closing period.

Current Listings

Cadia

Approx. 1729 - 1734-Square Ft.

3 Bedrooms

2.5 Bathrooms

Attached 2-car garage

2-Stories

Wellness Center with Lap Pool, Fitness, Pickleball Courts, and More!

Sales Price: Final sales price determined by purchaser’s income based on percentage of AMI

Special Financing Opportunity: 3.5% interest, $0 down payment

(Affordable mortgage financing available at a 3.5% interest rate for qualified GMHFH homebuyers through our approved lending partner. No down payment required. Buyer is responsible for applicable closing costs. Income and program
eligibility requirements apply. Additional lendingterms and conditions may apply.)

To be eligible to purchase one of these townhomes, buyers must:

Have a household income between $63,400 and $117,400 annually (The maximum income is a strict requirement based on the town's affordability agreement.)
Be willing to complete Greater Matthews Habitat’s Homebuyer Program
Agree to deed restrictions placed on the property to preserve long-term affordability
Be able to pay closing costs
Live or work in Matthews, Mint Hill, or the Mecklenburg County side of Stallings

Apply Now

Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity provides equal housing opportunity to all.

Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity has pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. Policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the nation. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin.

HomeownershpFAQ

Here are answers to the questions we hear most.

Traditional Habitat-built homes are newly constructed by Greater Matthews Habitat, often with future homeowners participating in the build process alongside staff and volunteers. Fast-Track Habitat homes are either previously constructed by Habitat or made affordable through partnerships with developers and municipalities. While the home type may differ, both paths follow the same core process: income qualification, financing through our approved lender, completion of the Homebuyer Program, and a commitment to long-term housing stability.

Need more help?

Send a message to our Homeowner Services Department.

Homebuyer Program

Fast-Track Greater Matthews Habitat Homebuyers must:

Here are answers to the questions we hear most.

What’s the difference between purchasing a fast-track Habitat home and a traditional Habitat-built home?

Who is eligible to purchase a fast-track Habitat home?

What makes these homes more affordable than others on the market?

Do I need to use a specific lender?

What is the Homebuyer program and why do I have to do it?

What are HIP-hours, and why do I have to do them?

Are there deed restrictions on these homes?

Can I sell my home in the future?