Special to Dorchester Banner/Habitat Choptank
Habitat Choptank is hosting two open houses on June 18. Prospective homebuyers are invited to tour homes in Easton and Cambridge, and learn about Habitat’s affordable homeownership program in Dorchester and Talbot counties.[/caption] CAMBRIDGE — Habitat for Humanity Choptank is hosting an Open House Saturday so that potential buyers can tour current homes that are under construction in Dorchester and Talbot counties. In Easton, community members are invited to 130 Hammond St. and in Cambridge, to 443 Oakley St. The properties will be open June 18, from 9am to noon. This no-pressure event is a chance for individuals and families to see firsthand the quality of construction in a Habitat home and to learn about the ‘green’ features that will make the house less costly to operate. Representatives will be on hand to explain the income limits and other requirements buyers must meet to qualify for purchasing a home of their own. “Habitat Choptank provides affordable mortgage financing to hardworking people who cannot qualify for conventional financing,” explains program manager Pat Ingram. Habitat also creates affordable opportunities for homeownership by serving as the contractor on all its home projects and by using mostly volunteer labor. “There’s a real pride in the product with our construction volunteers. They know they’re building someone’s future home. The houses may be modest in size but they are well built and durable.” While homebuyers with Habitat Choptank are not required to be first time homeowners, most are. “The combination of a quality and energy efficient home combined with the education and support that are hallmarks of our program serves as a great start for a new buyer,” notes Ms. Ingram. “Plus, some of our buyers find that a mortgage payment to purchase through us is less than what they have been paying in rent.” Habitat Choptank currently has a total of eight homes in progress between Cambridge, Hurlock, and Easton with plans to start at least four more homes over the coming year. Applications for homeownership are accepted year round. Since 1992, Habitat Choptank has empowered 69 working households from Talbot and Dorchester counties to build the stability, security and self-reliance that comes for buying a home at a cost they can afford. For information about homeownership, to volunteer with Habitat Choptank or to make a donation, visit www.habitatchoptank.org or call 410-476-3204.