Frequently Asked Questions

Buying an Affordable Home at Hillcrest Estates Altoona WI

Community

What is the Lot Rent?

Lot rent is currently $425 and it includes trash service and water. Sewer, electric and gas need to be paid separately.

How Do You Move Here?

First step is to submit an application. We review your income, employment, credit/background/rental history. It always helps to provide additional information such as what you are looking for (2, 3, 4 bedroom), any special situations, timeframe for moving, etc.

How Do You Apply?

You can apply online right here on the webpage. Click on the 'Apply' button.

What is the Income Requirement?

We require combined gross income to be at least 3 times the monthly housing payments (lot rent and home payments).

Do You do Background Checks?

Yes, a background check must not include any instances of previous evictions/conviction for drug manufacture or distribution, acts of violence or other crimes that would pose a threat to other tenants.

Do you Allow Pets?

Yes, we allow two pets under 80lbs each. We do not allow vicious breeds for safety of everyone (ie pitbull, rottweiler, german shepherd). We have a dog park for our residents.

Do You Allow Carports or Garages?

Carports are allowed as long as get community approval for design and installation. Garages are evaluated on case-by-case basis. 

What kind of Parking Do You Have?

Our lots typically come with two parking spaces. 

Can I park my commercial truck in the community?

We do not allow commercial vehicles to be parked overnight in the community. 

Homes

Can I Buy a New Home to Move it Out?

We only sell homes to future residents of the community. 

Do You Rent Homes?

We do not do rentals. We believe homeownership engenders sense of community and pride. Thus we only sell homes. 

Do You Have 4 or 5 Bedroom Homes?

We have both singlewide and doublewide 4 bedroom homes. We can custom order double wide homes that can have as many as 5 bedrooms.

Can I Customize Homes?

Yes, you can customize siding, cabinets, appliances, layouts and more. 

How Long Does a New Home Order Take?

From the time you order a home, it may take 3 to 6 months to get your home. We generally recommend taking a look at homes that are already in the community or in order.

Financing

What Kind of Down Payment Do I need to Buy a Home?

Down payments will depend on credit score and your income. Lenders typlically require 10% to 15% down payment. With good income and credit, you may have to put as little as 5%.

For credit score of 600 and above, minimum down payment is 5%. 

For credit score below 600, we have lenders minimum requirement of 10%.

My Credit is Not Great. Can I still qualify?

We work with a lender that does not have a minimum credit score. They require at least 15% down and you need to have a decent income. 

Can I Use My Retirement Fund for Down Payment?

Yes, you can withdraw from both 401k and IRA to use as down payment for your home. Talk to your accountant.

Can My Parents Gift the Down Payment?

Yes, we will need a statement from the gift giver. 

 

Other

Can I Bring In a Mobile Home that I Own?

Our management will have to review the home. 

If I Decide to Move Out, Can I Sell My Home?

Yes, we can also help you sell the home.