I don't understand what a home ownership interview is all about and why did you have to hide the wine?
The definition of impossible is getting a conventional mortgage while self employed and have no credit history (I.e. I have good credit from previous small bank loans but no credit cards.) Banks and loan companies have a tendency to run, not walk, when lending large sums on our demographic even though we have a fairly decent amount stocked back for down payment (a perk of being a bargain hunter/crazy coupon lady.)
That being the case, we applied for Habitat for Humanity build. Today was our home interview and we didn't think it would set a very good impression of ourselves had there been THAT MUCH (33 gal) sitting on the counter. If the interviewers didn't know that it takes MONTHS or more, they may have thought we were big flaming drunkards. In fact, the lady said something to the effect of, "is that what those are, I thought you were making moonshine or something" when the subject was brought up.The gentleman recognized it immediately though and sparked up a conversation.
For the record, were not like dirt poor but were not rolling in it either, this seemed the only option for homeownership given our situation. In fact, I was shocked that we fell into their income bracket. Apparently there has been an increase of foreclosures as of late, and if they don't find qualified people, within their bracket, who can fully carry out their agreement, they lose funding in our area.
It seemed like a shot, we threw it out there, and it looks like it may work out. I really hope that nobody thinks less of me, but I believe that there is always a way to make things work if you work hard and have faith.
Despite what some may think, were not "getting a free house", we have to volunteer hours before and during the build, we still have to have a down payment, and we will still have a set mortgage like anyone else. However, the mortgage is for building cost only and there is no interest. The downside is, we have a limited choice of lots and only 2 construction options. But to be able to have a place and stop paying this ridiculous rent is worth it.
So there ya go, I'm still on cloud 19. Plus the hubby took us out for a celebration dinner. And I bought 3 new pillows at Kohl's for a whopping $1.23 total (again w/ the crazy coupon lady.)