Home is the Key: Unlocking Stability and Hope in Delaware County
- Habitat for Humanity
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Located just outside Philadelphia, Delaware County—or "Delco" as it's affectionately known—is a vibrant, diverse community comprising bustling towns, walkable boroughs, and quiet suburban neighborhoods. It's home to over 576,000 residents and is rich in history, culture, and opportunity. Yet despite its strengths, the county is grappling with a growing crisis that affects individuals and families across the region: affordable housing.
At Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery and Delaware Counties, we believe home is the key to connection, well-being, and stability—but too many local families face barriers that keep it out of reach.
Housing Market Trends in Delaware County
Delaware County's housing market continues to grow, with home values steadily increasing year over year. While this reflects ongoing demand, it also raises concerns about affordability—particularly for first-time buyers and families with modest incomes. As prices rise, the path to homeownership is becoming more difficult for many in the community.
As of the end of March, the average home value in Delaware County is $349,601, reflecting a 3.7% increase over the past year.* In February, home prices were up 5.4% compared to last year, selling for a median price of $313,000.**
Barriers to Homeownership
For first-time homebuyers, entering the housing market in Delaware County has become increasingly difficult. Wages aren't keeping up with the cost of living, interest rates remain high, and affordable starter homes are in short supply. Many renters hoping to save for a down payment are burdened by rising rents, making it harder to set money aside.
On top of these challenges, buyers face steep upfront expenses like closing costs, inspections, and repairs. The shrinking inventory of lower-priced homes has led to bidding wars and long wait times. Generational wealth gaps further widen the divide, particularly for historically marginalized communities that may lack financial support. Add to that the weight of student loan debt and credit hurdles.
The result? Too many Delaware County families are priced out of the opportunity to own a safe, stable home where they can grow roots and thrive.
A Home is More Than Just a Roof
At Habitat MontDelco, we believe that everyone deserves a decent place to call home. Homeownership is not just about having a roof overhead—it's about creating a foundation for success. A home provides safety, promotes health, supports educational achievement, and offers families the stability to plan for the future.
Our mission is to make that dream possible. Through volunteer labor, affordable mortgages, and community support, we partner with qualified individuals and families to build and repair homes across the region.
But don't just take our word for it—hear from our incredible homeowners on their meaning of home:
"Home is the place that holds our hearts together as one."
The Arvelo Family
"Home to us means peace. It is a place we can grow in. It is our memories, our bright future, and safety. Home is our happiness."
The Million Family
Come Together for Delco Gives
We are proud to participate in Delco Gives from May 8th to 9th! Delco Gives is a 24-hour online giving celebration hosted by The Foundation for Delaware County. This annual event brings neighbors together to uplift and strengthen local nonprofits through collective generosity.
In its inaugural year, 2024, the initiative achieved remarkable success—9,600 donors contributed over $1.7 million to nearly 300 nonprofits serving Delaware County.
This year, we're inviting you to join the movement and support our efforts to expand access to affordable homeownership in Delaware County.
Mark your calendars! From May 8th to 9th, visit our Delco Gives donation page to support our mission of providing secure, affordable homes for qualified families in our community.
Make a Lasting Impact in Your Community
You have the power to transform lives in your community. Help us unlock the door to a better, more stable future for families in Montgomery and Delaware Counties.
Here's how you can make a lasting impact:
Donate to support affordable housing in your community.
Donate or shop at our ReStore to reduce waste and provide resources for local families.
Volunteer to help build homes, creating stability for those who need it most.
Advocate for policies that promote equitable access to homeownership for everyone.
Together, we can help qualified individuals and families achieve strength, stability, and independence through affordable and attainable homeownership.
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