The Habitat Home
Standard Local Habitat Home: 1152 sq. ft., one bath, 3 bedroom, Ranch on a slab. The home pictured above, however, has 4 bedrooms, 1,300 sq.ft. of living space, and a few features not common in most other homes.
Energy Efficient:
Our local Habitat homes are Energy Star rated, which means they are highly efficient in terms of heating and have passed a rigid Energy Star test. The furnace and hot water heater, both gas fired, are specified for the Energy Star rating. Plus-rated insulation is installed in foundation, exterior walls and under the roof. The house is fully wrapped under the siding and all windows and doors are tightly sealed. All this adds up to low gas bills in the winter and a warm, comfortable home.
Excellent Materials and Expertise:
Nothing but new materials and equipment go into our local Habitat homes. The wall panels (exterior and interior) are prefabbed to our specifications by the inmates of Elkton Federal Prison – an important Habitat ministry. All code work, which must be done by professionals and then inspected, is provided by the Trade Union Apprentice Programs (electrical, plumbing and heating). The appliances (stove, refridgerator, washer and dryer) are Whirlpool. All other materials and equipment come from local suppliers and vary from house to house.
Partner/Owner Choices:
Habitat Partner/Owners play a big part in building their homes and in choosing some materials and equipment. The Partner/Owner will participate in picking out the style of kitchen cabinetry, some paint colors, some flooring styles (carpet, tile, etc.), and lighting fixture styles. Also our Partner/Owners have some discretionary dollars to spend on equipment and/or other materials. During this selection process our Partner/Owners work closely with, and are guided by, our Family Support Committee.