Joint News Release

Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry Purchases Land on Hilton Head Island for New Homes

December 4, 2024

With a $500,000 grant from the Town of Hilton Head Island, Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry purchased 1.53 acres of land off Spanish Wells Road for $625,000. The organization plans to build five single-family homes on the property. 

"Since finishing The Glen - a community of 32 homes off Marshland Road - in 2022, we have been seeking opportunities to build more homes on the island.  Thanks to the Town’s support, we’re delighted to have secured this land," said Brenda Dooley, Chief Executive Officer of Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry. "This parcel represents a tremendous opportunity to create a community-focused development, and we are eager to work with the Town to bring this vision to life and place five deserving families in these homes."

In February 2024, the Town Council approved a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Habitat, allowing the organization to apply for funding through the Town’s affiliated agency grant process. The $500,000 grant, funded by the state accommodations tax levied on visitors' overnight stays at hotels and other overnight lodgings, was designated for purchasing land to build workforce housing. The grant funds were approved as part of the Town’s fiscal year amended 2024 budget. Dooley noted that the remaining funds for the land purchase came from individual donations.

Habitat anticipates building three-bedroom, two-bath homes. All homes will be designated for Habitat-qualifying families. To qualify, the family must undergo an intensive application process, attend homeownership classes, and perform at least 300 hours of sweat equity. At the completion of the build, they purchase the house with a no-interest mortgage, which has a monthly payment plan at 30% or less of their household income. To qualify, homeowners must earn between 30 percent and 80 percent of the area median income (AMI) for Beaufort County.

"The Town is proud to support Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry, which has a proven track record of providing affordable housing through homeownership. As we strive to increase workforce housing availability on the island, Habitat’s efforts will play a critical role in meeting this need and fostering a sense of community and belonging," said Mayor Alan Perry.

About Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry

Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry is part of a global non-profit housing organization that operates on Christian principles. It seeks to put God’s love into action by building homes, communities, and hope. Serving Beaufort and Jasper counties, it is the only organization in the region creating new homes for residents earning 30 percent and 80 percent of their county’s AMI. Since 1990, Habitat has completed 190 homes in the area.