|
 Please download the following files for more information:
* Pre-Screening Application
* Authorization to Release Information
* What is RurAL CAP Owner-Built Program?
* FAQ's of Self-Help Housing
* Self-Help Owner Built Homes Program Loan Checklist
 RurAL CAP's Rural Housing and Planning Division established the Self-Help Housing Program in 2004 through a partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development (USDA RD) and the Rural Community Assistance Corporation (RCAC).
In the 1980s, USDA RD and RCAC began creating opportunities for rural, low-income residents to participate in a housing program that allowed them to obtain housing through low-interest (about 1%) loans while building safe, healthy and strong communities in rural areas.
The first RurAL CAP Self-Help Housing group of eight families and individuals moved into their homes 2008 in Sterling, Alaska. The second Self-Help group in Kenai, Alaska is scheduled to complete their homes in 2009.
To View a Virtual Tour of Our Self-Help Homes in Sterling, Click here: http://www.eaglestation.com/ruralcap/westway/index.html
At this time, RurAL CAP will have helped 18 families and individuals become homeowners. Our future plans are to  complete 8-10 homes each year in the Kenai Peninsula area beginning each spring.
The program differs from housing programs such as Habitat for Humanity and Alaska Native Corporation housing assistance programs. Professional construction supervisors and some specialized labor are provided to families.
However, approximately 65% of the work (a commitment of 30 hours of labor per week) known as "sweat equity," is required of each potential homeowner in the program. Through the Self-Help program, homeowners take part in the actual building of their own homes.
 Benefits of Self-Help Owner-Built Homes
Families:
• Learn new skills: Personal finance, home construction, home maintenance
• Build and own a new home with very little out-of-pocket expense
• Gain a sense of accomplishment and ownership
• Work together with others to build strong communities
• Affordable mortgage loans (interest as low as 1%)
• Reduce the purchase price of the home with your hard work
• Payments smaller than what you are paying for rent in most cases
• No mortgage payment during the construction phase
• Gain instant equity the day you move in
Communities:
• Increase and maintain affordable housing stock
• Increase property tax base to support local government services
• Boost local economies through purchase of building materials and hiring subcontractors
• Stabilize communities by providing safe, attractive and affordable housing
• Create vibrant neighborhoods
• Contribute to a stable workforce
To apply for the RurAL CAP Self-Help Housing Program please fill out the Prescreening Application and mail or fax to RurAL CAP:
RurAL CAP
Self-Help Housing
PO BOX 200908
Anchorage, AK, 99520
Fax: 1-866-733-0852
|
