The nonprofit is now preparing to break ground on a second neighborhood, Marble Creek, located in unincorporated Magnolia.
“This was the best investment for the organization at the time,” Armstrong said. “We're able to really help just give the opportunity to a very vastly growing area of the county and serve an area of the county that is largely underserved throughout the community.”
Marble Creek will be Habitat’s largest undertaking yet, Armstrong said, aiming to provide over 200 homes for families who meet program criteria. The 81-acre tract of land was donated by Brian and Shirelle Chimenti, and the development will feature a park, walking trails and green space to create a strong sense of neighborhood connection, Executive Director Vicki Johnson said.
Unlike Cedar Creek, which received city infrastructure support, Marble Creek’s location outside city limits means the nonprofit must fund $11.5 million in infrastructure, including roads, drainage and water systems.
Despite challenges, leaders said the effort will offer more than just housing.
“We believe that not only do we provide this amazing home for families to have an opportunity to thrive, but we also contribute back to the local economy, and we believe that's really good for a nonprofit organization like Habitat,” Johnson said.
The overview
To qualify for a Habitat home, applicants must meet three requirements: a need for better housing, the ability to pay a mortgage, and a willingness to partner with Habitat. The need for better housing is determined by the living situation of applicants.
There is no down payment, but closing costs of $2,000–$3,500 are required, Armstrong said. Homes range from one to four bedrooms and the average mortgage for Cedar Creek residents is about $900.
Cedar Creek began with a 37-acre land donation in 2004, with construction starting in 2009. Over 16 years later, the neighborhood is nearly built out. Johnson said volunteer support and fundraising were essential to keeping the project alive through the years.
“There is a lot of heart in this work,” Johnson said. “We all know what home means to us, and for us to be able to partner with the community and do this great work for our neighbors and friends, it's a blessing. I get chills when I think about it.”
Habitat hopes to replicate that community-driven momentum in Marble Creek. The nonprofit is working to complete its capital campaign, which funds the infrastructure and housing construction. The goal is to build 200 homes in 10 years, Armstrong said.
Habitat homes average 1,100 square feet and are built without garages to minimize costs. Armstrong said he estimates it costs $125,000 to build each home. About $75,000 is covered through sponsorships; the rest is raised through grants and donations.
“Volunteers gave almost a half a million dollars in donated time to the organization,” Johnson said. “We're a small team, but it's with the hands of volunteers and fundraising. It's not a cheap mission. It's a really expensive mission.”
Every home built through Habitat for Humanity creates an economic ripple. For every $1 invested, $1.62 is returned to the local economy through construction jobs, contractor payments and local spending, Johnson said.
“We hire local trades, use local suppliers, and engage thousands of volunteers,” Johnson said. “We serve those who are the backbone of our community—teachers, healthcare workers, service employees.”
Families gain stability and independence through affordable mortgages, not handouts, Johnson said, which is a key difference. Many continue giving back even after moving in by volunteering to help build homes for future neighbors.
“This is their neighborhood—and they help build it, literally,” Johnson said.
Marketing and Communications Manager Tyler Schievelbein said those looking to get involved can donate or support the capital campaign online at habitatmctx.org.
