In a move typically reserved for much larger Habitat affiliates in western North Carolina Transylvania Habitat for Humanity recently celebrated closing on three affordable homes in one week, a milestone which also included closing on home number 80 for the 40-year-old nonprofit.
“This is a monumental achievement for this smaller, rural affiliate,” said Angie Hunter, executive director of Transylvania Habitat, in a news release. “Closing on three affordable homes in just under two weeks is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our team, volunteers and community partners, including the homeowners, and we’re grateful for the unwavering support and commitment that makes these successes possible.”
Since 1984, Transylvania Habitat for Humanity has provided affordable homeownership through quality, energy-efficient homes and affordable 30-year mortgages. To further enhance Habitat’s mission, the affiliate has introduced new programs including recycling existing Habitat homes to new applicants and rehabilitating older homes, in addition to new home construction. These initiatives, successfully implemented in the recent three home closures, allow Habitat to connect more families to their forever homes by offering more diverse pathways to homeownership. After qualifying for a Habitat home, completing 200 hours of sweat equity, and completing classes on homeownership and budgeting, the three qualified applicants were matched with their homes by Habitat staff based on several key factors, including the need, size of the home, and timeframe for closure. However, the significance of the three closures doesn’t end simply with the closures themselves. The Family Services Committee and staff approved Brevard community member Cory to purchase the last newly constructed home within the Habitat-built Don Ross Acres Community in Rosman, while in Rosenwald, the construction team completed a total rehabilitation of a 70-year-old home, setting a new standard for sustainable living in the area for another applicant, Victoria, and her family.
Embracing the spirit of renewal, Habitat also introduced a “recycled” Habitat home previously owned by a Transylvania Habitat homeowner as the third applicant. Davida was able to complete her requirements and purchase the home back from the affiliate with an affordable mortgage, closing the circle on three very different, but much-needed homes for community members in need of an affordable home. “Our team worked tirelessly to complete these three closures,” added Hunter. “From our Family Services Manager Jenni Kerr putting together the mortgages and working closely with homeowners, to our construction team of staff and volunteers meeting deadlines for the new homeowners and giving the best product they can. This has been an amazing team effort.” Because Transylvania Habitat for Humanity is celebrating its 40th anniversary as a champion for affordable housing in 2024, the staff holds a great sense of pride in being a smaller, rural affiliate that has made a huge impact on its community.
Since the nonprofit’s inception in 1984, the affiliate has closed on 81 homes for more than 260 individuals and families, the Critical Repair Program has completed 85 projects on 47 homes for those in need of safe housing, and the ReStore continues to process donations of gently used household items and building supplies to help generate income for the affiliate’s mission. But, as most Transylvania County residents are aware, the stock of affordable homes for families, workforce individuals, and even young professionals is nonexistent, creating a need that is greater than ever in our area. This forces nonprofits such as Transylvania Habitat for Humanity to pivot slightly and adapt to the need through new programs such as the Critical Home Repair Program. Although daunting, Hunter and her team at Transylvania Habitat are excited about the challenge they face in the wake of the current affordable housing crisis. “Seeing the support from other civic organizations, nonprofits, and community groups like the Brevard/Transylvania County Housing Coalition is vital for the success of this issue,” Hunter concluded. “Our community members deserve a safe and affordable place to call home, and we continue to be dedicated to making the homeownership dream a reality.” For more information on the Brevard/Transylvania County Housing Coalition, call the Transylvania Habitat office at (828) 884-3464.
Celebrating our 40th anniversary in 2024, Transylvania Habitat for Humanity is a 501©(3) organization with a vision of ensuring that all residents have a decent place to live. Join us in our mission to build homes, communities, and hope in Transylvania County.
Find out more about purchasing a home, donating to the ReStore or applying for a home.
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