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.

31985 N 117th Avenue Peoria, AZ 85383

$589,990
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,680 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6755529
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
It's the spacious Bluebell in the stunning community of Mystic. Walk-in shower at owner's bath with tile surrounds/floor. Multi slide door leads out to the covered patio. Pavers at drive, walk and entry. Stainless steel appliances include a 30'' cooktop, wall oven, microwave & canopy hood. Maple Linen-off white cabinets with soft close drawer and doors, pull out trash drawer and additional cabinets in laundry room and at owner's entry. Driftwood wood laminate floors in all areas except beds/closets. Amenity Rich Mystic includes a Resort Style community pool, Rec center with year-round events, Hiking paths & community parks. The perfect location- close to shopping, restaurants, golf, Lake pleasant and the loop 303. THE PICTURES ARE FROM THE BLUEBELL MODEL HOME.

9550 N 178th Drive Waddell, AZ 85355

$589,990
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,221 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780671
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Premium Lot and DR Horton's sought after Phoenician plan! The Gorgeous home will be completed and ready to move in by end of this year! This plan has soaring ceilings with the primary bedroom downstairs and split. Open kitchen and huge slider are just a few of the great features. As you move upstairs you will enter the huge game room that splits 3 bedrooms and bonus media room! Bed 3 has its own bathroom perfect for older teen or guests! This home will have white quartz counter tops, shaker cabinets, wood like tile and much more! Conveniently located off the 303! Will not last long!

14904 N 56th Drive Glendale, AZ 85306

$589,990
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,288 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6699889
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
4 Bedroom + Loft, 3 Baths, 2 Car Garage. KITCHEN: Benton Birch Natural cabinets, Quartz Denali countertops in kitchen, Gas GE Gourmet appliances, Tile backsplash. FLOORING: 6'' x 24'' Wood-look tile, upgraded carpet and pad., mission stair rail Surround sound in great room and loft. Washer dryer and refrigerator

9316 W Sandstone Mountain Drive Casa Grande, AZ 85194

$589,900
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,350 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769018
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Introducing a brand-new 2024 home, featuring 4 bedrooms and 2 baths, nestled on a full acre in an ideal location just minutes from I-10. The spacious and thoughtfully designed floor plan offers vaulted ceilings for an extra sense of openness. The primary suite includes a double-sink vanity, while the bright, open-concept kitchen showcases elegant white quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances, including a stove, dishwasher, and microwave. Enjoy the latest wood plank tile flooring throughout, with cozy carpeting in the bedrooms. Step outside to a large, covered back patio and a fully fenced yard with block walls. The property also features a 3-car garage, and the HOA permits RVs, boats, and other recreational vehicles. Estimated completion: Ready for immediate occupany Large, covered patio and a fully fenced yard with block walls. The property also features a 3-car garage and the HOA permits RV's, Boats an other recreational vehicles. Ready for immediate occupancy.

21333 W Roanoke Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396

$589,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,141 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766980
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the highly sought-after Sienna Hills community at the base of the White Tank Mountains, this brand-new, upgraded home offers modern luxury and breathtaking views. Enjoy picturesque vistas of Verrado's custom million-dollar homes and the majestic White Tanks right from your front porch. The backyard is a serene retreat with no neighbors behind, a peaceful hill framed by a view fence, a double gate, and plenty of space for a pool. Inside, the home impresses with white granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, elegant white shaker cabinets, and a stunning walk-in shower. The spacious four-bedroom layout includes a private en-suite, ideal for multi-generational living. Near Odyssey Elementary, Sienna Hills offers a community pool, scenic trails, and a friendly vibe.

16462 W Lava Drive Surprise, AZ 85374

$589,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,870 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767563
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover this popular Palo Verde model nestled on the 7th green of Granite Falls South Golf Course, offering breathtaking views of the course and White Tank Mountains. The home features a spacious 3-car garage with fresh paint and garage floor. Enjoy natural light streaming through bay windows in the kitchen and primary bedroom. This meticulously maintained residence boasts recent updates, including freshly painted interior and garage 2024 a new A/C system installed in 2018 and fresh exterior paint in 2022. Relax and soak in the stunning views from the back patio. The Grand is a premier age-restricted community for those 45 and older, offering a variety of amenities such as golf, pools, spas, pickleball, tennis, and more.

16182 W Casa Bonita Court Surprise, AZ 85374

$589,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,529 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768602
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome Home! This Cordova Model Features New Roof 2024, HVAC Replaced in 2021, Exterior Painted 2021, 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, Electric Stove/Oven, Newer Microwave, Black Slate Whirlpool Refrigerator, RO, Inside Laundry with Cabinets, 3 Car Garage with Sink, Recirculating Hot Water, Lots of Storage, Exit to Rear Yard, on Large cul-de-sac, Extended Front Courtyard, Extended Rear Patio Partially Fence,

1382 W Chillingham Road San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

$589,900
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,679 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775708
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this stunning beauty in the gated neighborhood of Magnolia Circle. This incredible home features four bedrooms, three and half bathrooms and multiple living areas for a large family! The breathtaking kitchen features a large open concept for a chef and entertainer's dream. Step to the backyard and discover a newly constructed play pool! This home truly has it all at a price that will not last.

6383 Old Forest Trail Show Low, AZ 85901

$589,900
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,852 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779519
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
THIS HOME IS LISTED UNDER RECENT APPRAISED VALUE! Main home is 2084 sq Ft and features a separate casita above garage that is 768 sq ft. This charming site-built home sits on 1.01 acres with two driveways. Home, as well as the casita have been recently painted inside and out, new flooring installed throughout the home and has an animal pen with closed shed and metal cover. Main home is 2 bed, 2 bath and a den/potential bedroom, full utility room, large 768 sq ft 3 car garage with storage room, vaulted ceilings, covered patio front and back. Main bedroom has its own balcony with screened door. Guest casita has a separate entrance through garage, full bathroom, wood burning stove, and is large enough for a bedroom section as well as a sitting area, and provides its own hot water heater.

7634 W Julie Drive Glendale, AZ 85308

$589,900 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Arrowhead Ranch, Glendale
New
$589,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,937 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6788458
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this highly sought after Arrowhead Ranch home! This home features a Pebble Tec pool and serene golf course views. Impeccably updated, it offers new exterior paint, hardwood floors, tile, carpet, and plantation shutters. The remodeled kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, cherry wood cabinets, Italian Marble countertops, a stylish backsplash, and an oversized island, perfect for entertaining. Vaulted ceilings and a cozy fireplace add charm to the living space. The luxurious master suite includes a corner spa tub, dual granite vanities, a makeup station, walk-in shower, and a spacious walk-in closet. With a newer roof and updated A/C, this move-in-ready home is a must-see!

3915 E Kimberly Way Phoenix, AZ 85050

$589,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,924 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787117
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your new home! Perfectly situated near Highway 51 and Union Hills Road for easy commuting, this beautifully updated property is located in the coveted Paradise Valley School District. Step inside and be captivated by the space and the modern upgrades throughout. With soaring ceilings and an open layout, this home is has a place for everyone! The large master suite is a true retreat, offering abundant natural light, a vaulted ceiling, and a stunning, spa-like bathroom (updated in 2023), that features double sinks and lighted mirrors. The spacious walk-in closet is another fantastic feature!! Don't miss the spacious kitchen, with plentiful storage and granite counters. The dining/living room on the main floor, and the loft upstairs are both perfect spaces for flexible needs, such as a home office, crafting, or play area. This home has been meticulously maintained with major updates including a roof restack (2021), furnace and A/C (2023), fresh exterior paint (2021), and new hot water tank (2021). Additional upgrades include a remodeled main bath (2024), new carpet (2020), and a Level 2 EV charger in the garageideal for the environmentally conscious. Some windows have also been replaced. The garage is equipped with built-in storage cabinets, and, for the workout enthusiast, multiple mirrors, creating the perfect setting for a home gym. Enjoy Arizona living at its best in your private backyard oasis complete with a sparkling pool, updated pool equipment (2023), and a covered patio perfect for outdoor gatherings. Take the opportunity to own this move-in-ready home that combines convenience, style, and thoughtful updates.

2059 W Desert Hollow Drive Phoenix, AZ 85085

$589,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,940 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787793
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Original owner is ready to pass the baton of home ownership. Built by Ashton Woods in the heart of Union Park at Norterra, this gorgeous and spacious home is an open floor plan with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and 2 car attached garage. The main level is perfect for lounging or entertaining. The kitchen has plenty of storage space with 42 inch upper cabinets, an island with seating area, and walk in pantry. Modern granite counters and stainless steel appliances (including gas range) compliment the cabinet colors (white and blue). The dining area is near the sliding glass door to outdoor yard. Owner customized the yard with pavers, low maintenance desert plants, and a beautiful water feature. A main floor powder room is a convenience for guests and has beautiful mosaic tile. . floors, as do the upstairs bathrooms. A beautiful metal and wood stair rail leads the way to the upstairs 3 bedrooms. Owner suite is very spacious and has an ensuite with dual sinks, tub, and walk in shower. Owner closet (with attached safe) has access to the laundry room (front load washer and dryer included). Two other bedrooms and bathroom are split from owner suite.