Business Details
50 Years
experience
Affordable Home Building Solutions in Ferndale, WA
Since 1976, Whatcom Skagit Housing has empowered over 700 families in Whatcom and Skagit Counties to build their own homes through a unique mutual self-help program. Our approach combines homeowner sweat equity with technical guidance and affordable USDA Rural Development loans, creating sustainable homeownership opportunities. We guide families through every stagefrom eligibility verification and waitlist management to construction and final mortgage conversion. Our team of seasoned professionals oversees project budgets, construction timelines, and supplier coordination while maintaining rigorous compliance with program requirements.With over 45 years of collective experience in residential construction and real estate, we specialize in energy-efficient home designs featuring modern amenities and sustainable building practices. Our commitment to community development is reflected in our partnerships with local subcontractors, who have received over $1.5 million in annual investments. We maintain transparent operations through regular reporting to our volunteer Board of Directors and regulatory bodies, ensuring accountability to the families we serve.
Services
Mutual Self-Help Homebuilding
Construction Assistance
USDA Loan Facilitation
Energy-Efficient Homes
Homeownership Education
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- 45+ years of experience in community-focused homebuilding programs
- USDA Rural Development loan partnerships for affordable financing
- Energy-efficient homes with Energy Star certified appliances
- 2000+ hours of construction investment per owner-built home
- Proven track record with 700+ successful homeowner projects
Services
Mutual Self-Help Homebuilding
Our signature program combines homeowner labor with professional guidance and USDA financing. Families work together in building groups to construct multiple homes simultaneously, reducing costs through shared efforts while receiving expert supervision and technical support throughout the 12-14 month construction period.
USDA Loan Facilitation
We specialize in USDA Rural Development financing solutions that make homeownership accessible. Our loan specialists package mortgage packages, verify eligibility, and coordinate with USDA to secure affordable financing options for qualifying families seeking sustainable housing solutions in rural communities.
Energy-Efficient Homes
All our homes feature energy-saving designs with high-efficiency gas furnaces, tankless water heaters, and Energy Star appliances. These sustainable features reduce utility costs while maintaining modern comfort standards through 1,200-1,500 sq ft layouts on 5,000 sq ft landscaped lots.
Construction Assistance
Our experienced team provides comprehensive construction management from design through completion. We coordinate permits, supplier bids, and subcontractor work while teaching families construction techniques, ensuring quality standards and timely project delivery for each homeowner group.
Homeownership Education
We offer pre-construction education covering mortgage responsibilities, construction timelines, and homeownership requirements. Our program includes four mandatory meetings to prepare families for the building process and long-term property maintenance commitments.
People
Larry Soderberg
Construction Supervisor
With nearly 40 years of experience since joining in 1984, Larry manages home designs, project budgets, and construction permits while mentoring families through the building process. He recently transitioned to part-time work while exploring outdoor adventures in the Pacific Northwest.
Julia Menkee
Executive Director
Leading WSH since 2020, Julia oversees program operations, secures funding, and manages regulatory compliance. Her background in real estate and construction helps maintain strategic direction while coordinating with the volunteer Board of Directors and reporting to stakeholders.
Luke Shelton
Construction Supervisor
With 23 years of residential construction experience building over 70 custom homes, Luke teaches families construction techniques while managing daily building operations. His community-focused approach emphasizes hands-on learning and quality craftsmanship throughout the construction process.
Brian Talbert
Construction Assistant
Transitioning from 20 years in grocery industry operations, Brian now supports construction activities after completing his own home build. He applies his organizational skills to maintain project timelines while mentoring new homeowners in construction tasks.
Erin Kennedy
Family Loans Specialist
Since joining WSH in 2023, Erin manages loan packaging, budget administration, and financial documentation. Her expertise ensures smooth mortgage processing while guiding families through the financial aspects of homeownership from application to closing.
Questions
What is mutual self-help homebuilding?
Our program combines homeowner sweat equity with professional guidance and USDA loans, allowing families to build their own homes while reducing construction costs through their labor.
How do I qualify for the program?
Applicants need a minimum 640 credit score and household income within USDA limits. We verify financial capability to meet mortgage payments while maintaining program affordability standards.
What home features are included?
Our energy-efficient homes include 3-4 bedrooms, 2+ bathrooms, 2-car garages, Energy Star appliances, tankless water heaters, and 5,000 sq ft landscaped lots.
How long does the process take?
The process typically takes 3 years from application to move-in, including waitlist time, pre-construction meetings, and 12-14 months of group construction for 8-10 homes.
What support do you provide during construction?
Our experienced construction supervisors manage permits, budgets, and subcontractor bids while teaching families construction techniques and safety protocols throughout the building process.
