Columbus Area Habitat for Humanity is building seven homes for low-income families through its homeownership program.

The homes are being constructed on Dorsey Drive and Pine Valley Drive in the Nueva Valley Subdivision with help from volunteers. On Friday, volunteers with Phenix City-based AFS Foundation & Waterproofing Specialists worked with Habitat for Humanity staff to begin the first phase of construction on Dorsey Drive.

“Most important thing is the foundation that’s what everything rests on so that’s actually what we’re doing here today getting everything prepared to lay the foundation,” Volunteer Aaron Jernigan said.

Each home will be 1,300 square feet. Four new homes are planned for Pine Valley Drive and three will be built on Dorsey Drive.

Affordable housing shortage prompts construction

According to a recent study by Homeblue, a contractor network, the average cost of building a home in Georgia ranges from $110 to $200 per square foot.

Executive Director Louise Hurless said affordable housing is limited in the area.

“We have a very high deficit of affordable houses,” Hurless said.

The homes will be sold to families based on their income.

“We look at what it cost in the long run and then we look at their income and what their afford ability range is,” Hurless said.

Future homeowners will be able to personalize their homes, from cabinet selections to paint colors and flooring. The lot on Dorsey Drive used to be a park and was donated by the YMCA to Habitat for Humanity to build affordable housing in the community, according to Hurless.

“It’s very rewarding knowing that someone is going to get that home that is in need. If we don’t come together to support each other than who is going to? Everybody should put their best foot forward and do their part,” Volunteer Cullen Brooks said.

If you are interested in volunteering, click here.