Lindsey Shannon can’t bring herself to climb higher than two steps up a ladder.

But that didn’t stop her from helping a team of Habitat for Humanity of Island County builders and volunteers construct her a home in record time — five months.

Last month, the Oak Harbor single mother of three young boys received keys to the first house she’s ever owned — a dream she thought beyond her reach.

“I would never be able to afford this without Habitat’s help,” she said. “My sweat equity was the down payment. And it happened so quickly. I applied in June, construction started in September and I’m moving in tomorrow.”

The 1,300-square-foot house has three bedrooms, one bathroom, a spacious kitchen and front room and a garage. It’s located in the Pine Terrace neighborhood where Habitat built two other homes.

The house is built to be energy efficient with well-padded installation.

Shannon said her mortgage payments will be about $900 a month, including taxes. She expects her utility costs will be greatly reduced.

“Our goal is not only for people to have a home but also make it affordable to live in,” said Orin Kolatis, chief operation officer of Habitat for Humanity of Island County.

The national organization, Habitat for Humanity, started in 1976, with the goal of ending homelessness and providing affordable, permanent housing through community construction crews.

Shannon’s house is not only special for her family but also the “family” of the local Habitat for Humanity nonprofit organization.

Her house marked the 50th housewarming presentation, and this year marks its 20th anniversary. It became an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International in 1998, led by local residents Vic and Marlene Jones.