Refinancing to Pay for Renovations? Consider the VA’s Energy Efficient Mortgage Program

Refinancing to Pay for Renovations? Consider the VA's Energy Efficient Mortgage ProgramMaking renovations that are energy efficient is not just a great way to reduce energy output, but it’s also an effective way of decreasing monthly utility costs. It serves as a one-time investment that will save money in the long run.

However, renovations are costly and not everybody has the extra finances required to make energy efficient changes. This is where the VA’s energy efficient mortgage (or EEM) program comes into play.

The program is designed to allow veterans to apply for a new mortgage or refinance an existing one with extra funds to renovate the home to be up to energy efficient standards.

The Three Tiers Under The VA’s Energy Efficient Mortgage Program

The VA has three tiers for the cost of renovations to be done under the EEM program. The lowest, and easiest to be accepted for, is for improvements that will total under $3,000. A list of costs or a contractor’s quote may be required in the application process.

The second tier is for renovations that will cost between $3,001 and $6,000. This will require the homeowner or homebuyer to get a Home Energy Rating System report to detail how efficient a home is currently and what can be done to decrease its HERS rating.

The final tier is for any improvements to the home that will cost over $6,000. This is the most difficult tier to receive acceptance for as both the Department of Veterans Affairs and the private lender will need to approve the renovations.

Types Of Improvements Under The EEM Program

The program covers a variety of renovations for the home. These include: new insulation to walls, floors and ceilings, solar powered heating and cooling systems, thermal doors, thermal windows and new caulking and weather stripping.

There are also items that will not be covered by the program, including new roofing, vinyl siding and air conditioning units.

Using The EEM Program To Receive A Larger Loan

Any veteran or currently active military member looking to buy a brand new home can still benefit greatly from the energy efficient mortgage program. If a new home undergoes a HERS report and passes as being energy efficient, this can be applied to a VA mortgage to receive as much as $6,000 extra on the loan.

Speak with your local mortgage professional to go into more detail on the intricacies of refinancing under the EEM program and whether or not your home will qualify.  If you need mortgage professional, give me a call – 602-320-4253.

11166 E Prospect Point Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,699,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,392 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768907
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Apache Cottage 60! This stunning home offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience. Beautiful mountain views and backing to the golf course driving range of Apache golf course, this split floor plan 3 bedroom/3 bath has it all! The split floor plan provides both privacy and spacious living. Some of the many features include updated/upgraded kitchen cabinets, granite, appliances, laundry area, HVAC, water heater and water softener. A mix of Travertine, carpet, and wood flooring throughout. A spacious back patio with refurbished built-in BBQ and spa, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Oversized two car garage with storage cabinets and storage closet provides ample space for your toys and outdoor adventure gear! Whether you're seeking a year-round residence or a lock-and-leave retreat, this abode provides the ultimate backdrop for the sublime Arizona lifestyle. Plus, with access to Desert Mountain's array of amenities including 7 golf courses, 7 clubhouses, and 20 miles of private hiking trails, every day promises a new adventure in casual luxury. Experience the epitome of desert living in this exceptional Desert Mountain retreat. No membership to The Desert Mountain Club is included with this property.

17417 E Monument Court Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$1,699,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,090 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6751165
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Incredible New Construction home on the largest lot of this wonderful Trilogy at Verde River community. Located just one house away from the multi-million dollar clubhouse with fine dining, swimming pools, championship golf course, pickleball courts, and lots of planned activities like live music and painting. You'll need to see to believe! Step inside your beautiful new home from the protected private courtyard to the oversized great room with stunning fireplace, inviting kitchen and dining rooms, and engaging views to your private backyard paradise. This upgraded kitchen will delight the pickiest of chefs. Enjoy the oversized patios with artificial turf, low-maintenance landscape and view of the Tonto National Forest OR add pools and activities to delight your family.

26348 N 104th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,699,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
3,249 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6758962
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION. OVER HALF AN ACRE CORNER LOT IN THE HIGHLY DESIRABLE TROON FAIRWAYS EUROPEAN THIS HOME FEATURES AMAZING VIEWS OF PINNACLE PEAK AND TROON MOUNTAIN. SPACIOUS 3 BEDROOM AND 2.5 BATHROOM FLOOR PLAN AND FEATURES A GOURMET KITCHEN WITH WALK IN PANTRY LIGHT AND BRIGHT BREAKFAST ROOM. ENJOY AND ELEGANT FORMAL DINING ROOM WITH ACCESS TO A LOVELY COURTYARD AND A HUGE GREAT ROOM WITH 20 FOOT CEILINGS AND A GREAT ENTERTAINING BAR. NOT A COOKIE CUTTER SOUTHWEST HOME. THIS HOME IS ELEGANT AND PROVIDES EASY AZ LIVING WITH A SPARKLING POOL. VIEWS VIEWS VIEWS!! LOADS OF GREEN ARTIFICIAL TURF EASY LOW MAINTENANCE YARD PLUS A 3 CAR GARAGE. YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS THIS ONE.

7627 E Turquoise Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,699,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,373 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764461
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in tranquil cul-de-sac, this fully renovated gem by Surround Interiors seamlessly blends modern luxury with the timeless charm of McCormick Ranch. No expense spared with this rare 3-car garage home including new electrical, roofing, paint, stucco, windows, flooring, doors & landscape. Step through the grand courtyard, complete with outdoor fireplace and be welcomed by a spacious open floor plan. The living area boasts soaring vaulted ceilings and a multi-slider that bathes the space in natural light. The bright, chef-inspired kitchen is perfect for cooking and entertaining. The primary bedroom features a stunning ensuite with large shower, freestanding tub, double vanity and walk-in closet. Outside, enjoy your private bkyd oasis with pool, covered patio, BBQ island & mature trees.

1007 N Rosewood Circle Payson, AZ 85541

$1,699,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
3,670 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6770057
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your private mountain retreat!! This 4 Bedroom, 4 Bath home, which includes a casita guest house, is an incredible and unique custom home featuring a massive paver deck, top-notch interior with knotty alder solid core doors, windows encasements & baseboard, along with hand-scraped hardwood flooring, 4 stone column interior, stone gas fireplace and luxurious granite countertops through the entire house. This home includes top-of-the-line Thermador Appliances, an $80k upgrade, and a whole lot more. It's a must-see property when it comes to Chaparral Pines. Don't miss out on the opportunity to live in an incredible home that has all the bells & whistles you could possible need. Make an appointment to come see it before it's gone!!! HOME DETAILS Home Built in 2014 by Wes Carlock Luxurious 3,670 Square Foot Home with 4 Bedroom & 4 Bathrooms including a 2 Bedroom Private Casita with Wet Bar Island, Refrigerator & Livingroom Fully Fire Wised Oversized .82 Acre Corner Lot with Ponderosa Pines & Adjacent to Greenbelt Area (Feels like 1.5 Acres) Oversized Raised Paver Patio with Views including Custom Built in Propane Gas Grill & Fire Pit HOME HIGHLIGHTS Thermador Appliances - Double Oven, 5 Burner Gas Stove, Dishwasher, Microwave/Convection Oven, High-end Refrigerator Columns Thermador Standalone Refrigerator & Freezer w/Icemaker 2nd Standalone Wet Icemaker and Wine Refrigerator in Wine Closet in Main Building (New) 4 Stainless Trash Compactor (New) Stone Columns that greet you upon entry to the home. Main House 2nd Bedroom En-suite (Walk-in Closet & Dual Sinks) Granite Counter Tops Throughout w/Custom Edge Lighting (Main House & Casita) Solid-core Knotty Alder Doors (Main House & Casita) Knotty Alder Window Casements & Baseboard (Main House, Casita & Garage) Knotty Alder Ceiling (Main House, Casita & Primary & Guest Bedroom Patio) Hand-scraped Hardwood Flooring (Main House & Casita & Powder Room) Main House Instant Hot Water Heater x (New 2022) Large Oversized Paver Patio with Grill & Fire Pit Hot Tub on private patio outside the Primary Bedroom & 2nd Guest En-suite Separate Paver Patio attached to Primary Bedroom & Guest En-suite Stone Gas Fireplace with Remote (Main House) Custom-tile in 3 Bathrooms, Laundry Room In-home & Outdoor Speaker System (Kitchen, Primary Bedroom & Bathroom; Outdoor Patios Oversized Deep 2-Garage+ (26 Deep x 24 Wide) Gutters and down spouts feeding into French drains around the buildings Sink and storage in laundry room (Washer & Dryer) Jetted large bathtub in master bath Walk-through shower in master bath with 2 shower heads, including a rain shower Sprinkler drip irrigation system throughout property Landscape lighting, 3 zones Bird and Bat Deterrents outside around both buildings Water softener on main building No grinder pump Storage underneath casita Custom made cabinets in garage with Chaparral Pines Logo Extra Garage Shelving Buyer option: Golf Simulator setup in casita, retractable impact screen, projector and tur RECENT UPDATES Main House AC & Heater (June 2023) New Exterior Paint Main House & Casita (June 2024) Beverage Refrigerator in Casita (June 2024) Garage Epoxy Flooring (June 2024) Satellite Dish (DirecTV)

13499 E Cannon Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$1,699,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,640 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780788
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Prepare to be captivated by this exquisite 5-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom residence now available in the highly sought-after Sonora Vista Gated community! This home boasts striking curb appeal, featuring a beautifully manicured desert front yard, and a spacious 3-car garage. The inviting front porch, complete with a tranquil stone fountain, offers a warm welcome. As you enter, you'll be greeted by an elegant foyer that flows effortlessly into a spacious living area, ideal for entertaining family and friends. This stunning home showcases high ceilings, sophisticated crown molding, stylish columns, and luxuriously appointed stone floors, all wrapped in a warm, inviting palette. The formal dining room, adorned with a dazzling chandelier, sets the perfect stage for memorable dinner parties. The formal dining room, adorned with a dazzling chandelier, sets the perfect stage for memorable dinner parties. The cozy family room beckons with skylights that flood the space with natural light and a fireplace that provides comfort during cooler winter nights. Aspiring chefs will love the gourmet kitchen, equipped with beautiful wood cabinetry with crown molding, a pantry, stunning granite countertops, a tasteful tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and an island with a breakfast bar for casual dining. Retreat to the primary bedroom, a sanctuary of luxury featuring tray ceilings, private outdoor access, a spacious walk-in closet, and a lavish ensuite bathroom complete with dual sinks for added convenience. Step outside to discover your own personal oasis in the fabulous backyard, which includes a covered patio, an extended seating area, a built-in BBQ for outdoor dining, lush natural turf for play, and a sparkling blue pool and spa combo that invites relaxation and enjoyment. Don't miss your chance to own this remarkable home! Act now and make it yours!

6439 N 75th Avenue Glendale, AZ 85303

$1,699,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,110 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6633883
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Total of three parcels available see private remarks for more information. Excellent investment opportunity. Property is currently zoned for R-1 Max 3.525 units/dwellings per acre Can be subdivided for high density allowing for smaller lot sizes. Rezoning is not a requirement for high density Rezoning would be required for multi-family and a pre-application meeting is required. Centrally located to 101 Freeway and I-10 and close proximity to State Farm Stadium, Westgate Entertainment District and Desert Diamond Arena.

20670 E Marsh Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,699,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,152 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6677084
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
All Offers will Be Considered--Nestled within the prestigious gated community of Bridle Ranch in Queen Creek, AZ, the luxurious residence at 20670 E Marsh Rd is a true testament to elegance and refined living. Spanning 4,225 square feet on a 15,940 square foot lot, this property combines privacy, sophistication, and detailed craftsmanship in one magnificent offering. As you enter the gates, the grandeur of the entrance conveys a sense of exclusivity and safety, leading you through meticulously manicured landscapes and open, grassy expanses perfect for family gatherings and creating lasting memories. The home itself is a sanctuary of comfort and luxury, featuring an open floor plan that beautifully integrates living spaces with abundant natural light and upscale The interior boasts 4 spacious..bedrooms, 3.5 opulent bathrooms, a versatile bonus room, and a 3-car garage, designed to accommodate a lifestyle of luxury and convenience. The heart of the home, a gourmet kitchen, is equipped with a reverse osmosis system, a 60 Sub-Zero fridge-freezer, a 48 range, a microwave drawer set within custom cabinetry, and a dedicated coffee bar, catering to both casual mornings and grand entertaining. Details such as coffered ceilings, board and batten accents, and wood beams in the entry and kitchen area add layers of sophistication throughout the space. Entertainment is effortlessly elevated with a state-of-the-art movie theatre room and a comfortable mother-in-law suite, alongside three indoor electric fireplaces that add warmth and ambiance. The luxury extends outdoors to a 30x40 heated pool, a 10-person spa with ledge loungers, and a marble landscaped backyard, featuring a marble chip edge pergola and two outdoor fireplaces, creating an idyllic environment for relaxation and social gatherings. The residence is also technologically equipped with advanced speaker and camera systems inside and out, ensuring security and convenience. The garage, detailed with epoxy floors, water softener, cabinets, and a mini-split system, mirrors the meticulous attention to detail found throughout the property. From the lush landscapes with black basalt walkway imported from Turkey to the imported fireplaces that grace the interior, every aspect of this home at 20670 E Marsh Rd in Bridle Ranch speaks to an unmatched level of luxury and elegance. This property not only offers a lifestyle of unparalleled sophistication but also stands as a symbol of luxury living in Queen Creek's most coveted gated community.

18223 W San Miguel Court Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$1,699,000
6 Beds
6 Baths
4,100 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6704847
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Fall in love with this newly built custom home located in the gated community of Russell Ranch, 6 bedroom 6 bath and an office/den. Fire sprinkler system, electric fireplace, multiple ceiling heights 10, 12 and 16 ft ceilings. RV garage, Detached casita with one bedroom, full kitchen, living room and laundry closet, water softener pluming ready. *Heated pool and jacuzzi *RV garage: double oversized door (size 14x14), RV plug, mini split AC system, spray foam, insolated garage doors. *3 car garage - EV Plug, spray foam, insolated garage doors *Electric panel- 400 amp electrical panel with a 200 amp sub panel

19132 W Townley Court Waddell, AZ 85355

$1,699,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,354 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6711991
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This estate is the epitome of serene living complete with a generous sized 2600 plus sq. ft. detached garage for your car collection & motorhome. This custom built one owner home showcases an incredible detached RV garage for cars/toys/storage that includes a large office and a casita. Located in the gated community of Sonoran Ridge Estates where the breath-taking mountain views of the White Tank Mountains and wildlife are endless. Once you enter the gated community you look to the left you see the massive detached garage and are intrigued to explore the .96-acre property and dream of owning such a gem. As you find your way into the secluded cul-de-sac you will see the beautiful territorial home with mature landscaping. Once you pass through the large beautiful front door and make your way through the home, you see the custom touches such as the 10-to-12-foot ceilings, tile through-out, oversized Jacuzzi tub in primary bath and interior stone in living and family room. The home also possesses granite countertops, 2 newer a/c units, surround sound inside home and back patio, stainless steel appliances, solid beechwood cabinets, walk-in pantry, kitchen island, solid knotty Alder wood doors/jams, and 2 x 6 framing. Off the patio is a staircase leading to an observation deck that has a cable outlet great for watching television while observing the mountains in the background. The garage attached to the home has a mini split for added cooling. This property has endless opportunities for grand scale entertaining with a generous shaded back patio equipped with a large bar complete with a sink/water, refrigerator and under counter storage and lighting. You will be mesmerized as you follow the walkway lined in pavers to this 2600 plus sq. ft. detached garage (front and back entry). The garage boasts a foam roof, 2 x 8, 2 x 6 RV construction, spray foam insulation, insulated garage doors, cooled by 2 new a/c units (4 & 5 tons), industrial LED lighting, wired with 220 that includes compressed air outlets in several areas throughout RV/garage /workshop area, wired with security video. The office/casita has wood-look plank tiles, quartz countertops, new slate maple cabinets, wired for dual zone surround sound speakers/cable/WIFI, new 75 smart T.V., dual pane windows-energy efficient. Home and detached garage has outlets installed on roof parapets for Christmas lights. Do not miss this one!

13051 N 70th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,699,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
3,586 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6755937
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the coveted Desert Estates neighborhood, this charming ranch-style home sits on a sprawling half-acre lot with striking curb appeal. The mature desert landscaping and expansive front ramada offer the perfect setting to relax and take in the stunning evening sunsets. Inside, the home boasts recent updates, incl interior paint, new kitchen featuring granite countertops, ample cabinetry, a buffet bar, extra storage, & renovated bathrooms. Addt'l upgrades include a re-coated roof, new lighting, and so much more! The spacious family room & an impressive laundry/pantry room are sure to delight any buyer. The main living area flows seamlessly into an open-concept kitchen & family space, w/ large windows throughout the home showcasing backyard views and breathtaking sunrise moments. The primary suite features an oversized walk-in closet, dual sinks, and private access to the backyard oasis, while the secondary bedrooms are generously sized, including one with an ensuite, perfect for guests. Designed for entertaining, the backyard is a true desert paradise with an expansive covered patio for outdoor dining, a built-in BBQ, a synthetic lawn, a sparkling diving pool, a fire pit, and beautiful desert landscaping. An additional storage room is conveniently located on the south side of the property. With no HOA and located within the top-rated Scottsdale school district (Sequoya, Cocopah, and Chaparral), this home offers unbeatable value. Enjoy easy access to world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment at Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter, as well as proximity to premier events like the Barrett-Jackson car auction and the WM Phoenix Open. Plus, you're just minutes from the 101 and 51 freeways, providing quick routes to Sky Harbor Airport and Downtown Phoenix. Don't miss the opportunity to own this exceptional, turn-key desert estate!

17458 N 97th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,699,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,130 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6755649
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Windgate Living! This spacious residence welcomes you with an impressive foyer that seamlessly flows into an open-concept main living area, where the kitchen serves as the heart of the home. High ceilings and abundant natural light fill the expansive living room and adjacent casual dining area, while a large formal dining room provides the perfect setting for intimate gatherings. The first floor features a luxurious primary suite with a generous walk-in closet and beautiful primary bath. Upstairs, an airy loft connects two sizable bedrooms, a large bathroom with dual vanity and private water closet, and a cozy corner flex space ideal for a coffee bar. Walk out to your resort style backyard with no one behind you and enjoy the Windgate Ranch life style.