Self-Help Housing
Program Information
SEICAA’s Self-Help Housing program enables eligible, first-time homebuyers to build their own homes under the supervision of an experienced construction supervisor. As participants build their home, they learn basic maintenance, repair, and weatherization skills. By the end of the program, participants not just own a home, they have the tools necessary to maintain their new homeownership status.
SEICAA’s Development team has helped over 90 families throughout Southeast Idaho obtain homeownership – we’ve built houses in each county within our service area! And the Self-Help Housing program always accepts applications. To be put on the waitlist, please complete an application.
Once completed, you may mail in or drop off your application at SEICAA’s Bannock County office (641 N. 8th Ave. Pocatello, ID, 83201) or you may email it to newhomes@seicaa.org.
Program Guidelines
Participants are required to provide 50-100 hours of labor on their home. The labor contribution becomes the down-payment, referred to as “sweat equity.” Participants may also qualify for additional subsidies, down-payment assistance, and gap financing. Additionally, participants must:
- Income qualify and cannot make more than 80% of the area median income (see Income Guidelines below).
- Have reasonable credit history; no bankruptcies filed in the past 36 months; nothing in collections; and a score of 640 or higher.
- Be able to legally enter a contract.
- Possess adequate and dependable income to cover financial obligations.
- Complete an online Homebuyer Education class.
Income Guidelines
SEICAA’s Development team is currently building homes in the Alpine Crossing subdivision in Bannock County. As such, only the Bannock County income guidelines are posted:
| County | 1-Person Household | 2-Person | 3-Person | 4-Person | 5-Person | 6-Person |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bannock | $43,250 | $49,400 | $55,600 | $61,750 | $66,700 | $71,650 |