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Several Habitat Homeowners Pay Off Mortgages

The mission of Habitat for Humanity of Spartanburg is simple and inspiring -- “seeking to put love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope.”

That hope is realized when families are financially stable and able to support themselves. Habitat Spartanburg is proud of our history that includes 33 years of providing low-income, deserving families with an opportunity to own their own homes through a proven model used worldwide.

Since 1987, Habitat Spartanburg has built 138 homes. Of those, 44 families have completely paid off their mortgages and own their homes free and clear.

Four families recently paid off their mortgages, despite economic uncertainty due to COVID-19.

“The fact that these families used their income tax refunds and their CARES Act relief funds to pay off their mortgages shows their commitment to financial stability,” said Lee Close, Executive Director of Habitat Spartanburg. “Habitat Spartanburg’s mission is fully realized when we hear from families who say that burden of a monthly mortgage has been lifted.”

Habitat Spartanburg builds an average of seven new homes annually. In fiscal year 2020 (July 1, 2019-June 30, 2020), we were able to close five homes. COVID-19 slowed new home construction as sites were shuttered in April. However, regular volunteers and construction staff have returned to the site utilizing social distancing and sanitizing practices. In addition to new home construction, Habitat Spartanburg offers a Critical Home Repair Program for low-income homeowners who need exterior repairs or other safety improvements, such as wheelchair ramps.