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.

706 E Washington Street Unit 128 Phoenix, AZ 85034

$590,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,880 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6732346
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Welcome to urban living at its finest in this modern and stylish loft in the heart of downtown Phoenix. Within walking distance of event centers, fine dining, the lightrail, and so much more, this industrial-chic loft features an open floor plan with soaring ceilings, large luxury tile floors, and big windows that flood the space with natural light. The sleek kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and plenty of cabinet space for all your culinary needs. The spacious bedrooms offer a private retreat with 2 bathrooms. Enjoy the convenience of in-unit laundry and a designated parking space as well as a secure 1 car garage. Outside, this corner unit has its own private side yard perfect for pets. The third story patio offers views of Chase Field, Phoenix skyscrapers, and perfect for enjoying our spectacular Arizona sunsets.

1144 Christopher Creek Loop Payson, AZ 85541

$590,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,392 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6742443
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
TWO HOMES on 2+ acres of tall pines, & National Forest on 2 sides (303-10-107A and 107B)! Extraordinary property, recently appraised for $650k - a rare opportunity for a sweet get-away in all four seasons, as a break from summer heat, or as a fantastic rental property. Classic mountain cabin + guest cottage are located right on the loop, less than 2 miles on the adjacent forest road up to the spring-fed headwaters! It's a gorgeous area for hiking, picnicking, & fishing (seasonal bi-weekly stocking of the Creek w/trout,etc). Unique main home has a master bedroom with an amazing view from the balcony, as well as an add'l loft bedroom. Open style floorplan, with oak floors & large windows on three sides for plenty of natural light; there's a woodstove to cozy up to on cool evenings. CLICK: Custom bath features stone and glass brick walls & loads of storage; separate laundry room. Kitchen has an island with granite countertops, & the large decks (over 700 s.f.) in front & back offer the perfect setting for relaxation, entertaining, and watching the wildlife that meander through. Darling studio-style cottage provides additional space for overflow, guests, or tenants, complete with its own kitchenette and a bath with shower. This property is on a shared well, with this listing owning two of the three shares; further, the neighbor who owns a third share has drilled his own and has never hooked into this well. It's a rare opportunity to enjoy a secluded but conveniently located piece of paradise, right in the middle of the most beautiful forest in Arizona, with unparalleled opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, stargazing, and more. Treat yourself to a beautiful drive, and come check it out! Seller and listing agents are related.

6703 N 12th Street Phoenix, AZ 85014

$590,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,673 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6729358
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover this unique single-level home within the Madison Simis boundaries! Boasting 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, this spacious residence features a remodeled master bedroom and bathroom, along with a beautifully renovated kitchen equipped with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Recent upgrades include exterior paint and a heat pump (2017). New exterior paint! The property offers two RV gates and sits on a generous corner lot, providing ample space for parking your toys. Conveniently located in Mid-Town, you'll have easy access to shopping, restaurants, and public transit. This versatile home is perfect for a potential assisted living facility, group home, or extended family living.

20630 W Grandview Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$590,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,600 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6741192
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
***$10,000.00 seller concessions for upgrades, carpet, etc***This stunning corner lot home is located directly across the street from a beautiful children's park and features a spacious open concept living area with a sizeable kitchen-perfect for entertaining. The primary bedroom includes a walk-in closet and en-suite bathroom with dual sinks, a soaking tub, and separate shower. The backyard is an empty slate that can be customized to your liking and the large front porch is ideal for relaxing and enjoying the neighborhood, complete with a porch swing for added charm. The two car garage offers plenty of storage space for all of your toys. Enjoy the small town feel of Verrado with its tree-lined streets, community events and friendly neighbors.

504 N 297th Lane Buckeye, AZ 85396

$590,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,850 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6746288
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
New Build Dream Home! Completion date early December 2024. Large 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom, 2-car garage on a 1-acre corner lot. Open Floor plan with large great room and eat in kitchen. Custom shaker cabinets with soft close drawer and doors. Spacious master suite with double sinks, quartz counter tops, walk in closet, private entrance to the covered patio.

2640 S Southwind Drive Gilbert, AZ 85295

$590,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,260 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747537
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
***MOTIVATED SELLER!!!*** A beautifully maintained gem in the heart of Gilbert, AZ. This charming 4-bedroom, 2.5 bath home offers a perfect blend of comfort and style, nestled in a serene and family-friendly neighborhood. Freshly painted inside and out, the home is just waiting for you to move in! Check out the HUGE master bathroom with an oversized shower boasting 2 showerheads. Multiple living spaces and 4 bedrooms will give your family plenty of space to spread out! And don't forget the pool! With a fountain to keep it cool on these hot summer days! Added bonus... No neighbors behind you and only one directly next to you. Additional highlights of this home include a convenient 2-car garage, a dedicated laundry room, and easy access to nearby parks, shopping, and top-rated schools.

15428 S 24th Street Phoenix, AZ 85048

$590,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,817 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6757496
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautifully REMODELED home on HUGE corner lot in Ahwatukee. Gorgeous backyard with mountain views. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths plus Den/4th bedroom. Located in the popular Mountain Park Ranch community. This home boasts all new cabinets and granite countertops throughout, new flooring, new window screens, and professionally landscaped backyard with gazebo. Home comes with a ''NEW FULL ROOF'' that is only 4 years old and ''NEW Carrier A/C'' unit installed just 2 years ago! Also included are ALL APPLIANCES including both refrigerators. Inside garage are custom built in cabinets for plenty of storage and a separate side entrance.

5060 S Las Mananitas Trail Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$590,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,184 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767301
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Superstition foothills beauty combines amazing mountain views with a tastefully furnished home. The soaring ceilings and louvred shutters afford natural light as desired. The huge primary suite contains a sitting room, spacious vanity, walk in closet and glass shower + tub. Sophisticated, open kitchen hosts stainless appliances, newer large granite island and lovely cabinetry with pull outs all around. Yard includes a refreshing pool with built in table, water fall, pergola with seating. and a fire pit for chilly winter nights Natural habitat between neighbors and fencing enhances your privacy. A built in BBQ, fridge, wet sink & burner and citrus trees complete the back. A 3 car garage contains more storage cabinetry and a sealed floor.

2705 W Summit Place Chandler, AZ 85224

$590,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,703 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769650
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This highly sought-after home, perfectly situated on a prime corner lot, is ready to be yours! The beautifully updated interior showcases fresh neutral paint, tile flooring, and newer windows that fill the space with natural light. Relax or entertain in the cozy living room, complete with newer carpet. The inviting great room features sliding glass doors that lead to the back patio, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience. The gourmet kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, ample cabinetry, granite tile countertops, and a two-tier island with a breakfast bar. Double doors open to the main bedroom, featuring plush carpeting, a spacious walk-in closet, and an ensuite bathroom with dual sinks and a luxurious floor-to-ceiling tiled shower. The delightful backyard offers a covered patio, artificial turf, and a newer saltwater pool system, newer pump, filter, Pebble Tec finish, LED lighting, and cool deckingperfect for enjoying warm summer days. Don't miss out on this unique gemit will go fast!

25025 S Desert Trail Court Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$590,000
2 Beds
3 Baths
2,028 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777486
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Seize the opportunity to own this coveted corner lot property nestled on a tranquil cul-de-sac! Great curb appeal with a well-maintained front yard, a 3-car garage, and an inviting courtyard. Discover sizable living areas featuring vaulted ceilings, a designer's palette, plantation shutters, tile/wood-style flooring, and a cozy fireplace. The kitchen is equipped with ample counter space, lovely wood cabinetry with crown molding, recessed lighting, stainless steel appliances, and a center island. The primary bedroom boasts a double-door entry, a private bathroom, and a walk-in closet for added comfort. Enjoy afternoon relaxation under the covered patio in the tranquil backyard! Excellent location! Close to golf courses, schools, shopping spots, etc. What's not to like? This gem is the one!

10114 W Cashman Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$590,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,682 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6687084
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
10114 W Cashman Dr, Peoria, AZ 85383 - REDUCED!! Pride of ownership in The Meadows, do not miss this beautiful home built in 2019 with all of the upgrades, 4 bedrooms all upstairs (1 is guest suite with private bath), Granite countertops, Gourmet stainless steel appliances with gas cooktop, large island and nice size pantry, tile backsplash, extensive wood plank tile flooring, custom window coverings, extended master shower with rain showerhead, oversized garage, water softener, Alarm system, low maintenance backyard, kids playset, nice corner lot, Community pool & hot tub, Pickle Ball Court, clubhouse, volleyball & basketball courts and other features. Easy access to Loop 303, less than 20 minutes to new Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Plant.

1258 W Plane Tree Avenue San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$590,000 - 5Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Ironwood Crossing Unit 3c 2012081598, San Tan Valley
Open House
$590,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,881 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787613
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Don't miss this 5 bedroom/3 bath home located in the sought after community of Ironwood Crossing. This home features a desirable open concept floor plan with tons of natural light and OWNED SOLAR PANELS!!!. The gourmet kitchen has an oversized island with seating, granite countertops, beautiful upgraded cabinetry, gas cooktop, and a walk in pantry. Large primary bedroom boasts a huge walk in closet, dual sinks and a separate tub and shower. All secondary bedrooms are spacious and have a walk-in closet. Guest bedroom has it's own wing with a bath that has a walk in shower. This home also has a separate den/office and a generous backyard with a covered patio. Community offers pools/spas, clubhouse, pickleball courts, splash pads, playgrounds, basketball & volleyball courts!