In Kenyon, a new Habitat home located at 716 Washington St., two blocks from Kenyon-Wanamingo High School, is nearing completion thanks to the efforts of Rochester Build Crew volunteers and students from the K-W school's construction classes. The home, a three-bedroom slab-on-grade design with a two-car garage, is part of an innovative program where students gain hands-on building experience while helping meet real housing needs.
However, the home does not yet have a family selected to purchase and move in — creating a unique opportunity for an eligible household to step into the program and become a homeowner.
A unique partnership between community volunteers, students and Goodhue County Habitat for Humanity is helping address the need for affordable housing in Goodhue County — while also creating a rare opportunity for a future homeowner in Kenyon.
The nonprofit organization, founded in 1993, works to bring people together to build safe, stable and affordable housing. Guided by its mission of putting faith into action, Habitat has helped more than 60 families achieve homeownership and continues to expand its impact across the county.
The collaboration between Habitat and local schools has proven to be a win for everyone involved. Students work daily on construction projects, learning everything from framing and roofing to installing windows and siding. Local contractors assist with specialized work, ensuring quality construction while exposing students to career pathways in the trades.
Beyond skill-building, the program strengthens the community by increasing the supply of affordable workforce housing.
Habitat offers a path to homeownership designed to be affordable and sustainable for working families. Applicants must meet several key criteria:
• Demonstrate a need for safe, affordable housing.
• Show the ability to pay a mortgage.
• Commit to helping build their home through "sweat equity."
In Goodhue County, Habitat generally serves households earning between 30% and 80% of the area median income. This baseline is determined annually by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and varies based on household size and county. The guidelines help ensure affordable housing opportunities are directed toward households with moderate to lower incomes who may not otherwise qualify for traditional homeownership opportunities.
Current Goodhue County guidelines can be viewed online through the department's website.
Monthly housing costs — including mortgage, taxes and insurance — are structured to remain affordable, typically capped at about 29% of household income.
Homes are sold at appraised value, but financing is uniquely structured. Habitat often combines a lower-interest mortgage with additional zero-interest or deferred loans and no down payments, significantly reducing upfront costs and monthly payments.
Long-Term Benefits for Families
This model creates long-term financial stability for homeowners. Families build equity over time while benefiting from:
• Affordable monthly payments that fit their budget.
• Low- or no-interest or deferred loans, reducing the financial burden.
• Equity growth, offering a stepping stone to future financial security.
• Stability for children and families, including consistent housing and community roots.
Additionally, Habitat maintains a right of first refusal if a homeowner chooses to sell, ensuring the home remains affordable for future families and preserving community impact.
A Call to the Community
As the Kenyon home nears completion, Habitat is seeking qualified applicants ready to take the next step toward homeownership. At the same time, volunteers are always needed to help finish homes and support future projects.
Those interested in applying or learning more about the program are encouraged to contact Bob Hawley, executive director of Goodhue County Habitat for Humanity, at 507-251-7470 or by email at bobhawley@gchabitat.org.
For one local family, this unfinished house represents more than walls and a roof — it’s a chance to build a future.
