Mutual Self-Help Housing
The program operates on the principles of sweat equity.
Groups of 9-12 participants build one another’s homes, working together under the direction and coaching of a RurAL CAP construction supervisor. These families must perform at least 65% of the labor and work at least 35 hours per week to build their homes and their neighbor’s homes. No one moves in until all the homes are finished. Once completed, a community of single-family homes replaces the once vacant lots. The participants’ sweat equity generally eliminates the need for a down payment and reduces the size of their mortgage.*
The building process enriches the families and their community. Families gain new skills, a home with little out-of-pocket expense, a sense of ownership, and affordable mortgage loans with payment subsidies, if eligible, while communities gain an increase in property tax base, a vibrant neighborhood, and an economic boost via the purchase of local building material and the hiring of local subcontractors.
How to Apply
- Complete a Pre-Screen Application and Credit Information Release Form found at or at the Soldotna RurAL CAP office.
- Provide a $35 Application Fee with your Pre-Screen Application, check payable to RurAL CAP. (This helps to offset the cost to pull a tri-merge credit report from a third party credit bureau.)
- Mail or drop off the completed forms to our address located at the Blazy Mall:
RurAL CAP Mutual Self-Help Housing
44539 Sterling Hwy, Suite 206
Soldotna, AK 99669
*The 502 direct mortgage loan does not have a down payment requirement, however, there is an asset limitation under this program, which could require funds at closing. A self-help expert will work together with each applicant to review the eligibility requirements of the program.
Resources & Links
For More Information
Blazy Mall
44539 Sterling Hwy, Suite 206
Soldotna, AK 99669
No walk-in visitors. Please call to schedule an appointment.
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