Hope Building Houses
Market-Rate Homes That Support Workforce Recovery
Who These Homes Are For
Homes built through the Hope Building program are sold on the open market. That means:
They are not income-based or subsidized housing
Buyers must qualify for a conventional home loan
Homes are priced for upper lower-income to middle-income households
If you are looking for income-based homeownership or housing assistance, please visit our Homeownership Program page.
Why HDA Builds and Sells Hope Building Homes
Hope Building houses are constructed (framed & finished) by paid trainees in HDA’s Hope Building workforce recovery program. Trainees work under the constant supervision of experienced HDA carpenters while earning industry-recognized skills and credentials.
All proceeds from the sale of Hope Building homes are reinvested into the Hope Building training program.
This earned revenue helps offset program costs, but grant funding remains essential to sustain and expand this work.
For buyers, that means:
High-quality construction
Thoughtful design
A purchase that directly supports workforce recovery in Eastern Kentucky
About the Homes
Hope Building houses are generally larger than homes built through HDA’s income-based programs and often include additional features.
Common features may include:
Open-concept living room and kitchen
Kitchen island
Primary bedroom with full bath and walk-in closet
Laminate flooring with ceramic tile in bathrooms
Large pantry and laundry room
Optional two-car garage
Back deck
All Hope Building homes are energy efficient, saving homeowners an estimated $900+ per year on utility costs.
Spec Homes vs. Custom Homes
Hope Building constructs both:
Spec homes
Homes built without a buyer identified
Available for purchase during or after construction
Custom homes
Built to a buyer’s specifications
Buyers who get involved early may select floor plans and certain features
Interested buyers are encouraged to contact us early to discuss availability and options.
Financing Your Home
Hope Building homes are financed through standard mortgage lending.
Buyers may choose any lender or bank. We often suggest Fahe’s JustChoice Lending, but this decision is entirely up to the buyer.
Homes are priced higher than income-based HDA homes due to:
Increased square footage
Additional features
Market-rate construction standards
Getting Started: FAQs for Potential Buyers
Begin by getting pre-qualified for a home loan through:
Your local bank
Other regional lenders
JustChoice Lending
National mortgage lenders
- Proof of current income
- Tax returns
- Personal information and permission to pull credit
- Additional financial documentation
The most common reasons are credit challenges or high debt levels. If this happens, don’t get discouraged – call us at 606-436-0497. We may be able to help you identify next steps.
Once you’re approved for a home loan, our Hope Building Program Director will work with you to get a home that suits your family’s needs. We may have a home-in-progress you love, or we can design a home just for you!
- In Breathitt, Knott, Leslie, or Perry County
On an HDA lot you select, a home already under construction on one of our lots, or land you own
What Do Hope Building Houses Look Like?
Explore examples of homes built by our Hope Building crew below.
Click images to enlarge.
Middle-Income Homeowner Testimonial
“There’s nothing else you can get that’s as nice as this, in this price range, anywhere. It doesn’t matter that I’m a nurse and make decent money now; I can’t get something like this by just going out there and buying it. You can’t.”
- Amber,
Hope Building Homeowner
Read more of Amber’s story here.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re interested in purchasing a Hope Building home or learning more about upcoming availability,
Contact:
Zoey Holland, Intake Specialist
Office: 606-436-0497
