Raritan Valley Habitat for Humanity Affordable Homeownership Opportunities

FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP, NJ — Families dreaming of homeownership in Somerset County may soon have a new opportunity to put down roots. Raritan Valley Habitat for Humanity is now accepting applications for two affordable homes planned for Franklin Township, offering qualified low-income households a pathway to stable and affordable homeownership.

The two single-story homes, to be built on Main Street and Kossuth Avenue, will each feature three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and approximately 1,225 square feet of living space. Construction will be completed through the collaborative efforts of Habitat staff, volunteers, and future homeowners, with occupancy anticipated in late 2027.

Each home will be offered at a purchase price of $180,000.

"We are so excited to begin the selection process for the Main Street and Kossuth Avenue homes," said Jessica Abbott, Executive Director of Raritan Valley Habitat for Humanity. "We are thrilled to be building in Franklin Township again and look forward to opening the door to homeownership for two new families."

Unlike traditional housing programs, Habitat's homeownership model combines affordable financing with active community participation. Selected applicants agree to make regular mortgage payments while contributing between 200 and 400 hours of "sweat equity." This includes helping build homes, volunteering at the Habitat ReStore, participating in financial literacy education, and supporting Habitat programs throughout the community.

According to Habitat leaders, these homes are possible because of strong local partnerships and community support. The land was donated by Franklin Township, while funding assistance was provided through Somerset County HOME and Homelessness Trust Funds, Regal Bank, and individual donors committed to expanding affordable housing opportunities in the region.

To qualify, applicants must attend a mandatory orientation, be willing to partner with Habitat throughout the process, and meet household size and income requirements established under New Jersey's affordable housing guidelines.

Maximum annual household income limits are:

• Three-person household: $69,700
• Four-person household: $77,400
• Five-person household: $83,600
• Six-person household: $89,900

Eligible households generally must consist of three to six people, depending on family composition.

Raritan Valley Habitat for Humanity has served Somerset and Hunterdon counties since 1991, helping families achieve safe, decent, and affordable housing through home construction, repairs, neighborhood revitalization efforts, and community partnerships.

Residents interested in applying, attending an orientation, or learning more about the Franklin Township homes can visit Raritan Valley Habitat's application page or contact Kris Kelleher at 908-704-0016, ext. 108.

About Raritan Valley Habitat for Humanity

Driven by the belief that everyone deserves a decent place to live, Raritan Valley Habitat for Humanity has spent more than three decades building homes, communities, and hope across Somerset and Hunterdon counties. Through volunteerism, donations, advocacy, and affordable housing programs, the organization continues to help local families achieve the dream of homeownership and create stronger neighborhoods throughout the region.

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