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.

6860 N Bridle Path Prescott, AZ 86305

$589,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,188 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6734725
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this spacious 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home located in the desirable Williamson Valley area of Prescott, AZ. With 2,188 square feet of living space, this property offers a fantastic opportunity to create your dream home with a little TLC. The living room is bright and inviting, featuring a cozy wood-burning stove and large windows that fill the space with natural light. The kitchen, while in need of some updates, provides ample space and potential for customization to suit your needs. The bedrooms are well-sized, with the primary suite featuring an en-suite bathroom for added convenience. The family room offers a comfortable space for relaxation and entertainment, complete with French doors leading to the backyard. Situated on a large lot, this property offers plenty of room for outdoor activities and entertaining. Located in a peaceful neighborhood with stunning views of the surrounding landscape, this home is perfect for those looking to invest in a property with great potential. Don't miss out on this chance to make this house your own and enjoy all that the Williamson Valley community has to offer!

4593 W Bush Bean Way San Tan Valley, AZ 85144

$589,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,337 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766477
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
IT'S ALL READY! Energy efficient 4 bedroom/2.5 bathroom split floorplan has it all! Built in 2021 - lightly lived in (seasonal) with a HEATED pool, 3 car tandem garage & only minutes from Mesa Gateway airport + restaurants, shopping & entertainment! Kitchen boasts a huge granite island, lots of white cabinetry, stainless appliances with gas stove, large walk-in pantry with beverage fridge, neutral backsplash & view to all living areas including patio & pool. Spacious primary bedroom suite with separate shower/bath & large walk in closet. Garage has extra storage. Whole house water system. Please view the prictures & the list of home features for the whole story. Like new without the wait or extra expense!

26085 W Siesta Lane Buckeye, AZ 85396

$589,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,376 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768129
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
You'll love this highly-upgraded extended SERENITY on a huge 1/3 acre homesite in amenity-filled Sun City Festival! Home warranty being offered! This popular floor plan offers 3 bedrooms + den/office with French doors & 2 baths in 2376 SqFt. The great room features a custom media wall with shelving and electric fireplace, in-ceiling surround sound speakers, and large picture windows letting in tons of natural light and backyard views. The gourmet kitchen features an abundance of white cabinetry with under-cabinet lighting, Quartz countertops, tile backsplash, upgraded stainless Kitchen Aid appliances including a 5-burner gas cooktop & wall ovens, large walk-in pantry, and an island with breakfast bar & pendant lighting. The dining area has a tray ceiling and sliding doors leading out to the extended paver patio that a ceiling fan, is wired for surround sound, and has a gas stub for your BBQ; and a large backyard with easy-care desert landscaping and tranquil water feature. The primary bedroom also has a tray ceiling and an en-suite bath offering an oversized tiled no-threshold shower with bench seating and rain shower head, a dual sink vanity, and large walk-in closet. Other features include plank tile flooring throughout, black-out shades in bedrooms, upgraded electrical package, rain gutters, an oversized 2 car fully-insulated garage with 4-foot extension and epoxy floors, separate fully-insulated golf cart garage, kool-deck driveway, and leased solar providing utility savings. Sun City Festival includes two recreation centers featuring resort-style pools and spas, fitness centers, group fitness studios, outdoor patios, and an indoor walking track. Tee off at the 27-hole golf course managed by Troon Golf® or create a masterpiece in the woodshop and crafts studio. You can also play pickleball, bocce and tennis.

16917 W Sheridan Street Goodyear, AZ 85395

$589,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,723 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767295
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
This highly upgraded Napa-villa is everything you've been dreaming of! It's designed for easy, lock & leave living, with all the features you could want. The chef's kitchen is a highlight, with quartz countertops, upgraded 42-inch cabinets with convenient lower drawers, stainless steel appliances, wall ovens, a gas cooktop. Tile flooring runs throughout the home, making it both beautiful & easy to care for. The home has tons of extra upgrades: stylish coffered ceilings with 2-tone paint, upgraded windows, 8-foot interior doors, a master closet system, a curbless shower in the master bath, plantation shutters, electric interior & exterior shades. The laundry room comes with extra cabinets & a handy utility sink. Outside, the driveway & entry walkway have a durable Kool deck coating. A stylish front security door welcomes guests. The south-facing courtyard patio is perfect for relaxing or entertaining with paver flooring, a peaceful fountain, and even a TV for outdoor enjoyment. The LifeSource water filtration system is an upgrade that you will love. The roof is even equipped with a pigeon-proof system. This home has everything you need and more!

2105 N Normal Avenue Tempe, AZ 85288

$589,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,287 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768517
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautifully updated three bed, two bath home located in desired Papago Manor! As you enter, you are greeted by a spacious and inviting living area filled with natural light, perfect for both relaxation and entertaining. The modern kitchen boasts custom white cabinetry, marble countertops, stainless steel appliances, and stylish gold hardware. Each of the three bedrooms offers comfortable space and generous closet storage, and updated bathrooms feature contemporary fixtures and finishes. Step outside to discover a serene backyard oasis, ideal for outdoor gatherings or quiet evenings under the stars. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, and easy access to major highways, this home combines modern comforts with a prime location. You don't want to miss this!

1175 Green Top Drive Happy Jack, AZ 86024

$589,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,503 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774795
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled on over an acre of picturesque, lightly wooded horse property, this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers a perfect blend of rural tranquility and modern comfort. Ideal for equestrian enthusiasts or those seeking serene country living, the expansive land provides ample space for horses, gardening, or outdoor activities. Inside, enjoy a spacious, inviting layout with a cozy living area, well-appointed kitchen, and comfortable bedrooms. With plenty of natural beauty surrounding you, this property is a peaceful retreat ready to be your forever home.

9623 E Rocky Lake Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$589,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,774 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778848
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Remodeled from top to bottom in exquisite detail is this one-of-a-kind contemporary villa in the highly desired Oakwood community. Over $100k in upgrades include a re-designed open floor plan, high-quality modern white cabinets in kitchen, bathrooms and laundry room. Kitchen includes quartz counters, stainless steel appliances, gas range, built in cabinet ice maker and pull out shelving. Master suite includes marble shower with Euro glass door, raised vanity with quartz counters and a large walk-in closet. Porcelain tile wood grain flooring, vaulted ceilings in main rooms, plantation shutters and lots of added high-end lights thru-out the home. Garage includes built-in cabinets and sink. Great patio space over looks a wide green belt. HOA takes care of exterior and common areas.

16002 W Jenan Drive Surprise, AZ 85379

$589,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,484 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780813
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Easy to Show this Beautiful move in ready home located in Greer Ranch subdivision. This 4 bedroom 2 1/2 bath split floor plan with great room is perfect for entertaining guests. Granite counter-tops and beautiful staggered cabinets with large walk in pantry and separate coffee bar area make this kitchen a cook's dream. Gorgeous Master Bedroom and bath. Large laundry room/ pantry with door to the side yard. Raised flower bed along the entire backyard block wall and large grass area along with extended covered patio make for a gorgeous outdoor haven and play area. RV gate with 10' side yard is ready for your creative touch. 3 car garage includes a deep sink. New Paint Inside and Out, Stainless Appliances 1 year old, Luxury Vinyl Plank Floors throughout , New Upgraded Carpet in Bedroom

36095 N Desert Tea Drive Queen Creek, AZ 85140

$589,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,186 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6585436
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Welcome to this tastefully decorated and designed property located in the highly desired gated community of Encanterra! Downstairs, this home offers the primary room, a guest bedroom, bathroom and laundry. Upstairs, you're greeted with a cosy loft, two bedrooms and third bath. The kitchen is complete with quartz countertops, modern cabinetry, glass tile backsplash and GE Monogram stainless steel appliances with built in refrigerator, dual ovens and warming drawer. You want it furnished, 'lock & leave' status... Sure! Relax and enjoy yourself under the covered back patio with a built-in BBQ looking out to a large grassy area. Welcome home!

35737 N Loemann Drive San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

$589,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,219 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6714599
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to 35737 N Loemann Dr., a stunning home nestled in the highly desirable area of San Tan Valley. This gorgeous property boasts 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and an expansive 3,219 sqft of living space on an 8,265 sqft lot that backs onto the serene Empire Park. As you step inside, you are greeted by a spacious open floorplan that perfectly balances luxury and functionality. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring a large island/breakfast bar, walk-in pantry, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, reverse osmosis system, and a water softener. The main floor houses a large primary suite complete with a spacious ensuite and a walk-in closet, providing a perfect retreat. Upstairs, you'll find a second suite and all bedrooms come with their own walk-in closets, ensuring ample storage space for everyone. A huge loft and a media room add to the home's versatility, making it ideal for both relaxation and entertainment. The great room opens to an expansive backyard with a view fence overlooking Empire Park, a covered patio, and plenty of space for a custom pool, perfect for entertaining family and friends. Additional features include a 3-car tandem garage and an RV gate for extra storage. Pride of ownership is evident throughout this meticulously maintained home. Don't miss the opportunity to make 35737 N Loemann Dr. your new address in San Tan Valley, AZ.

8744 E Via De La Luna -- Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$589,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
1,675 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6673641
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Rare 3/3 in desirable McCormick Ranch on a quiet dead-end street. Easy access to schools, shopping, Talking Stick Entertainment District, Dbacks spring training, etc. New dual-speed AC unit with 10-year warranty assures you stay cool affordably! Lovely community pool lets you cool down and not deal with the headaches of maintenance. Please email all offers for quickest response. Supra shackle is now up for easy access! Agents show at your leisure - lockbox installed, no need to schedule.

9122 W Circle Drive Strawberry, AZ 85544

$589,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,027 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6703166
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Feel the peacefulness of Country Living and bring your horses - 2 horse coved corral is included. Nestled on a secluded 0.40 acre lot, this private home boasts a spacious 2027 sq ft of living space. As you step inside, you are welcomed with a generous great room adorned with cathedral ceilings and a warming gas fireplace, offering a cozy ambiance for gathering or quiet evenings in. The allure of outdoor living is evident with covered back deck overlooking a sprawling yard, providing a perfect setting for outdoor dining, sitting around the fire pit or simply soaking up nature's beauty. Upstairs is a sizable primary bedroom which provides a tranquil sanctuary, vehicle an open loft area offers versatility for various lifestyle needs. This is horse property with two stalls. The 2-car garage has a full attic making for ample storage. NEW HVAC SYSTEM heat and A/C