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Orchardcrest Estates Subdivision

Overview

Under CHIP's self-help program, families build their homes in groups of five to nine under the supervision of CHIP's construction staff. Each household dedicates at least 30 hours per week in labor towards building their new homes and helping each other during the process. All homes must be finished before anyone moves in. 

House plans include 3-, 4- and 5-bedroom models with no down payment, affordable monthly payments, and low fixed interest rates. USDA Rural Development provides funding assistance for these programs. Builders must make at or below 80 percent median income for the county in which they build, have decent credit, and earn enough income to make monthly payments on the loan. 

This development is made possible with the following partners: USDA Rural Development, Housing Assistance Council, and NeighborWorks America. You can download an application by clicking "English Application" or "Spanish Application", or you can request an application by emailing CHIPgeneral@chiphousing.org or calling 530-891-6931.

CHIP’s Mutual Self-Help Program offers:

  • Affordable Monthly Payments

  • Help build your own Home, No Construction Experience Necessary!

  • No Down Payment

  • Low Fixed Interest Rate

Due to a high volume of applications received for our Orchardcrest Estates Ph. 1 subdivision in Thermalito, we will be closing applications on Thursday, October 23rd, 2025.

We are confident that we have received sufficient applications to complete the subdivision. However, you are welcome to submit an application any time before the end of the day on Thursday, October 23rd. If mailed, must be postmarked by this date. Please note that we are closed on Fridays, but applications can still be submitted via the mail slot located at the top of the door.
Located on the North side of Hwy 162 between Middlehoff Lane and 10th Street, Thermalito, CA 95965
  • Total Lots: 46
  • Available Lots: 46
Applications

Additional Information

Applicants must meet income limits based on households size and must demonstrate an ability to carry a mortgage. Decent credit is needed. If you have any questions about your credit, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Income Limits by Household Size:

Household Size (persons)Income Limit
1 - 4$75,100
5 - 8$99,150

There are 46 lots available, located on the North side of Hwy 162 between Middlehoff Lane and 10th Street in Thermalito, California.

Floor plans are not available at this time, but will be updated at a later time.

Applications are currently open and available in English and Spanish.

How to Become a Homeowner

  1. REACH OUT – When we connect, we’ll talk about your current needs and help you navigate any hurdles. There is a lot we can do to get you ready to pursue homeownership.
  2. APPLY – Find the right neighborhood and apply. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t forget we are here to help.
  3. START YOUR JOURNEY – You’ll be grouped with 6-8 other homeowners and you’ll build together under the direction of CHIP’s experienced construction staff. You’ll complete all of the homes together (typically 14-18 months).
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