Habitat kicks off housing complex on Plantation Key

Keys Heights: A rendering of the Keys Heights project, which recently broke ground at MM 89 bayside, on Plantation Key. CONTRIBUTED

Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys newest complex, “Keys Heights”, recently broke ground with four new affordable housing units on Plantation Key  scheduled for completion by the end of the year.

Keys Heights, located at MM 89, bayside, consists of three stand-alone elevated buildings. One is an upstairs/downstairs duplex. Each unit has three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

“Once again, our long-time partner CBT Construction is acting as general contractor and project manager for these top-quality, hurricane-rated affordable housing units,” said Lindsay Fast, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys. “We look forward to the selection of four new partner families to work with us on the completion of their homes.” 

HFHUK works in partnership with people in need to build decent, affordable housing. The houses then are sold to those who qualify at no profit and with no interest charged.  Applicants who live or work in Monroe County are evaluated, and prospective homeowners are selected based on three criteria: housing need, ability to pay and willingness to partner. 

The partnership begins months in advance of moving in and includes putting in 250 to 350 hours of sweat equity. The ability to pay is based on a minimum credit score, income and other financial factors. Upon completion of construction, homeowners enter into a long-term 0% interest mortgage with their payment based upon what they can afford to pay.

“We really strive to set our families up for success,” Fast said. “Homeownership is a life-changing event for anyone, particularly the people we serve. They tend to think it’s a dream they could never achieve. We love being able to help make their dream of homeownership come true.” 

Applications are currently being accepted for ownership of the four units at “Keys Heights.”   Visit www.habitatupperkeys.org/home-ownership for more information and an application form.

Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys is the local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, an organization dedicated to the elimination of poverty and substandard housing worldwide.  HFHUK is a nonprofit that serves Key Largo, Tavernier and Islamorada.  More information is at habitatupperkeys.org.