HOMEOWNERSHIP PROGRAM
Habitat for Humanity of Wausau (Habitat Wausau) helps area low-income individuals and families achieve their dreams of homeownership in Central Wisconsin. Habitat assists income qualified applicants who are currently living in substandard or inadequate housing conditions and are willing to partner with us on the construction of a new home.
Our Homeownership Program provides an affordable, non-profit mortgage for a safe, decent, and affordable home to our partner families. Monthly mortgage payments include principal on the loan, homeowner’s insurance, and property taxes. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, reside in the greater Wausau area for at least one year, and meet criminal background check requirements.
The 2026 application will be available starting January 28, 2026 and are due March 20, 2026.
Homeownership Qualifications
Need
Based on current housing conditions there must be a need for improved housing. Applicants must be U.S. Citizens or Permanent Resident and residents of Wisconsin and the Greater Wausau area for at least one (1) year.
Ability to Pay
Homeownership Program families purchase their Habitat home. Families must have the ability to pay 30 year, low-interest mortgage. Eligible income limits are $34,600 – $78,300 based on family size.
Partner
Families must be willing to work in partnership with Habitat Wausau and complete 300 hours of sweat equity by attending classes, workshops, attending events, volunteering and helping with home construction.
How to Apply for Habitat Wausau’s Homeownership Program:
Our application period is open Jan. 28, 2025 – March 20, 2026. Contact Habitat Wausau to sign up for an informational session and get an application.
Attend a meeting to receive valuable information, required application forms, and formal instructions on applying.
Complete and return application to Habitat Wausau by 4:30pm on March 20, 2026.
Mailed applications postmarked March 21, 2026 will be accepted.
Learn More About Habitat Wausau’s Homeownership Program
Attend one of Habitat Wausau’s free informational sessions to learn about the homeownership program, how to apply, get a copy of the application, and learn if homeownership is right for your family. Registration is recommended. Three informational sessions will be offered. There is no cost to attend, but registration is requested as seating is limited. Use the buttons below to register for one of the three sessions offered in February 2026.
For more information
email: office@habitatwausau.org
call: 715-343-4212
Supporting Documents
Income guidelines are based on family size. Please review the attached PDF for information on income guidelines for family size.
The Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA) is federal civil rights law that prevents lenders from discriminating against credit applicants based on factors unrelated to their ability to repay. Specifically, ECOA protects consumers from lending discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, age, public assistance, or the exercise of any rights under the Consumer Credit Protection Act.
Additional Homeownership Resources
Here are some additional resources for families looking for affordable housing solutions.