Rochelle Thom has spent years seeking an affordable place to raise her children. While commuting long distances daily, she has worked her way up from dishwasher to kitchen staff manager at Warren Wilson College. Now, she is also working hard on her Habitat “sweat equity” hours.
In December, Rochelle will begin making interest-free mortgage payments on her new, energy efficient Habitat home. Her monthly payment will be steady, her heating and cooling costs will be less than $30 each month, and her weekly commute will be reduced by nearly 80 miles. Best of all, her children will have a safe, healthy place to call home.

The Thom family is just one of 17 who will purchase an affordable home in Asheville Area Habitat’s new Swannanoa neighborhood. Located in the Beacon Village area off Dennis Street, this community has just begun and construction is scheduled through late 2014.  It’s the first time Asheville Area Habitat will build an entire neighborhood in Swannanoa, providing an affordable opportunity for families to put down roots in the greater Buncombe community.

Habitat’s model allows us to build quality homes that are affordable for families who earn between 30-70% of the area median income. The combination of volunteer labor, green building practices, and a 30-year interest-free mortgage makes homeowners’ monthly payment low and affordable – just $475 - $575/month, which includes escrow. Habitat uses these mortgage payments, as well as funds from ReStore proceeds, sponsorships, grants, and individual donations to keep its building programs moving forward.

To make homeownership a reality for more local families, we need your support.

Won’t you help more families plant roots in Swannanoa?

Donate today.