Architect’s rendering of planned new homes on Island Avenue Photo: Courtesy of Habitat for Humanity York County
Habitat for Humanity is planning to build five new affordable homes on Island Avenue, its largest project yet in Sanford.
The homeowner application deadline for the first two homes is April 17 with construction to start in the fall. To find out more about the homes, eligibility rules, and sweat equity requirements, Habitat for Humanity York County is holding an open house from 11 am to 2 pm on Saturday, March 21 at Goodall Memorial Library.
Habitat has already built eight houses in Sanford, more than any other community in York County.
The organization’s target market is prospective homeowners whose income is 80 percent of median income, substantially less than other affordable homeownership models.
“We really want to help the folks most in need,” said Nancy Lowenberg, director of development and community relations.
Habitat is now building four homes a year, up from one home a year as recently as 2024, Lowenberg said. This is possible because the shell of the house is built off-site in modular form.
The homes will be built on a currently vacant lot. Lowenberg said she hopes that the new construction will help revitalize the entire neighborhood, although that is not an explicit mission of Habitat.
Each home will be newly constructed and energy efficient, featuring heat pumps, all new stainless-steel appliances, and full basements, according to Habitat for Humanity. Selected homeowners will purchase their home through Habitat York County’s Affordable Homeownership Model. This includes a maximum price of $378,000 and an affordable mortgage, with monthly mortgage payments capped at 29-30% of monthly household income.
Homebuyers are selected before construction begins and become partners in the process by completing 200–400 hours of “sweat equity.” Sweat equity includes volunteering on Habitat builds and supporting other Habitat York County programs, such as the Restore.
To learn more and to apply, visit: www.habitatyorkcounty.org/homeownership or stop by Habitat’s office at 123 York Street, Kennebunk, ME 04043.
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