Alma Johnson stands Saturday outside of her home, which was built by Habitat for Humanity, along a row of other Habitat homes on Dodson Avenue.Later this week, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Chattanooga will cut the ribbon on the 250th house it has built in the Chattanooga area.
That house means something specific to owner Brenda Goodloe, who currently lives in public housing, but the organization itself has made a world of difference in the lives of scores of local people.
Not only does it benefit the homeowners, who agree to volunteer their sweat and hard work as part of being approved for a Habitat house, who will build equity and credit from paying for them, and who may escape a life of dependence because of them, but it also can offer volunteers the valuable experience of helping their neighbor, can revitalize a neighborhood and can be a safe place for residents who have never known one.
It's often misunderstood that once applicants put in their 350 hours of what Habitat calls "sweat equity," the home will be built free and clear. But it's not a handout. The homeowner, like other homeowners, will have a mortgage and pay taxes and insurance on their property.
Because of the volunteer labor, though, and a host of other factors that involve the good nature of individuals and businesses, the interest-free mortgage payments will be around $400 (including insurance and taxes).
The homes are nothing to sneeze at, either. They're either three or four bedrooms, two full bathrooms and have amenities such as all major appliances, fences and storage sheds. They're also energy efficient and have upgraded design features beyond the cookie-cutter designs the organization once offered.
Thanks, Habitat, for showing the way to responsible, affordable housing.