Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about applying, the waiting list, moving in, your monthly payment and owning your home. Each answer names the section of THI’s policy behind it.
Apply for Housing
Who can apply for a THI home?
Santa Ana tribal members whose household income is at or below HUD’s low-income limit for their household size, who can pay at least the $250 monthly administration charge and keep up a home, and whose family is without safe and sanitary housing. Everyone in the household must meet Pueblo residency requirements.
What do I need to bring with my application?
Every item on THI’s 14-item checklist that applies to your household, such as your last three pay stubs and copies of everyone’s Social Security cards. THI does not accept an incomplete application.
Can I apply online?
Yes. Fill in the application on your phone or computer, upload copies of your documents and sign it with your typed name. You can also print the application packet and bring or mail it to the office.
How will I know if I am eligible?
THI sends you a written notice of your eligibility within 30 days of its decision. If a home is available, the notice says where it is, how many bedrooms it has and when it will be ready. If not, you go on the waiting list.
On the Waiting List
How is the waiting list ordered?
By preference points. When two applicants have the same points, the one whose complete application THI received first comes first.
Do I have to update my application every year?
Yes. Once a year THI writes to everyone on the list. If you do not update your application when asked, you lose your place on the list and your file becomes inactive. Years on the list count toward your points only with an update every year.
How do I take my name off the waiting list?
Send THI a written notice asking to be removed from the list.
Selection and Moving In
How does THI choose a family for a home?
When a home is close to ready, about sixty days before move-in, THI selects families from the list, matching each family to a home that fits its size. The Tribal Council approves each family THI selects.
What happens if I turn down a home?
If you turn down an offer without a justifiable reason, your name moves to the bottom of the list of eligible applicants.
Do I have to take homebuyer classes?
Yes. Every homebuyer takes part in THI’s education sessions before and after moving in, including financial literacy and home maintenance classes. Missing sessions without good cause can disqualify you from the program.
Living in Your THI Home
When is my monthly payment due?
On the 1st of each month. A payment THI receives after the 5th is late and adds a $25 late charge, which is waived for homebuyers on payroll deduction.
Can my payment go down if my income drops?
Yes. If your income or family changes and your payment is now more than 30% of your adjusted monthly income, ask THI to recertify your income.
Who pays for repairs to my home?
You take care of your home’s maintenance and repairs. THI handles warranty items you report during the warranty period and, in the Homeownership Program, repairs covered by its insurance; under the Tribally Funded Policies you insure the home yourself.
What if I disagree with a THI decision?
If THI takes an Adverse Action against you, as Section XI defines it, you can file a grievance in writing within 30 days. A hearing officer hears it and THI cannot charge you a hearing fee, but THI does not have to hold a hearing while your account is delinquent. General policy decisions, including the administration charge, and lease terminations are not grievances.
Owning Your Home
When does my home become mine?
THI conveys the title to you when the balance of your purchase price is paid, or when you have made all the monthly payments your agreement requires, whichever comes first.
Can I pay more than my required payment?
Yes. Anything you pay beyond your required monthly payment goes toward your purchase price. You can also buy your home sooner with a Section 184 loan from an outside lender.
Who takes over my home if something happens to me?
The successor you name when you sign your Lease Purchase Agreement. Your successor must be an immediate family member and a tribal member, and you can change the name in writing at any time.