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.

902 E Le Marche Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85022

$599,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,124 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6765470
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
WELCOME to your beautiful 4 bed, 2 bath home with a pool and stunning mountain views, located in a desirable neighborhood with no HOA. This immaculate property features a renovated kitchen and bathrooms, with the additional playroom, perfect for families. The home is equipped with owned solar panels for energy efficiency. Conveniently located close to shopping, restaurants, and more. The perfect family home, offering comfort, space, and breathtaking views. Don't miss out on this move-in ready gem!

5851 E Singletree Street Apache Junction, AZ 85119

$599,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,350 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6774610
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Lovely family or retirement home,with gorgeous mountain views and all the peace & quiet you want. Sip your cocktails on the back patio while watching the birds and the squirrels and the occasional deer that wander through the property. Awesome city light views are a bonus from your outdoor kitchen pad. Inside is a spacious kitchen & dining area combined for the perfect entertaining space. Beautiful desert views from every window! Detached garage and separate storage shed are part of the package.

9305 W Calle Lejos -- Peoria, AZ 85383

$599,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,865 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6775737
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
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2760 E San Tan Street Chandler, AZ 85225

$599,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,913 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6778218
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful, Upgraded 3 Bedroom, 2 full bath home, in the popular and centrally located Dobson Place subdivision. Split bedroom floor plan, Large Great Room open to Kitchen and Breakfast room, Separate formal dining area. Backyard is Beautifully designed for entertainment, with Covered Patio and Heated Pebble-Tech Pool, with Rocks Waterfall. Home has been kept well and maintained, with many upgrades and updates. All New Roof (jan/24), all New windows throughout the house, Recently remodeled Kitchen Counters, Cabinets and appliance, updated bedrooms (Master and guest), updated Tile floor through out the entire house. Other Features: Natural Gas hook up for Gas Grill. Natural Gas Heated Pool, Additional Storage above Garage, Natural Gas Fireplace.

959 N 97th Way Mesa, AZ 85207

$599,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,050 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6786673
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
BRAND NEW Construction with Custom-Quality Upgrades throughout! This beautiful Modern Farmhouse is located on a 1/4 ACRE FENCED YARD with NO HOA. FRONT YARD LANDSCAPING INCLUDED. Gourmet Kitchen w/ high-end Cabinets w/ 42'' uppers, White Quartz Countertops, Stainless Steel Appliances & Wood Plank Tile Floors. Stunning Master Bathroom w/ Freestanding Soaking Tub & a BEACH ENTRY Glass Shower. Exceptional Energy Efficient - boasting Spray Foam Insulation, Premium AC unit & High-end Windows. Superior Construction and Craftmanship includes Premium Roofing System, Premium Synthetic Stucco & much more! COMPLETED in April/May 2025.

10696 S 297th Avenue Palo Verde, AZ 85343

$599,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,317 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6771316
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
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3291 N Clanton Street Buckeye, AZ 85396

$599,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,350 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767149
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
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1401 Old Jerome Highway Clarkdale, AZ 86324

$599,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,401 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787713
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --

1436 N Bernard -- Mesa, AZ 85207

$599,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,556 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6784104
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
''Investors here is the opportunity you've been waiting for. This Incredible 2 story home is perfectly situated in the sought after community of Sierra Estates. A fantastic floor plan with spacious living area and vaulted ceilings throughout. Great use of the over 3500 sq ft featuring 4 bedrooms 2.5 baths and gorgeous vaulted ceilings. The Back yard has outdoor kitchen, with pool and open space. Bring your vision and skills to a home that is ready for you to make it shine. Mostly cosmetic repairs needed and will be an incredible investment opportunity for some sweat equity.

38446 N Hazelwood Circle Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$599,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,400 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785606
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Better than a condo and no HOA! 2 bed/2 bath remodeled, 1400 square foot Cave Creek Casa. Covered front porch and fully enclosed back patio. Detached 160 SF Art Shed. RV parking space with 30 amp post. Located in the town core and 1 block to restaurants and shopping. Upgraded 200 AMP electric panel. Newer ''alternative septic''. Zoning is MR. Just under 1/4 acre with incredible views.

31013 N 41st Place Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$599,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,096 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787652
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this spacious and inviting home in highly sought-after Tatum Ranch! With over 2,000 square feet of living space, this bright and open floor plan features soaring vaulted ceilings, a striking wrap-around fireplace, plantation shutters, first floor primary suite and a new first floor A/C unit. The open-concept kitchen is perfect for entertaining, complete with stainless steel appliances, plenty of counter space and pantry. The generous primary bedroom is a true retreat, offering a private patio entrance, a beautiful arched window that bathes the room in natural light, and a luxurious en suite with dual vanities, a soaking tub, and a walk-in closet. The upstairs versatile loft provides the perfect space for a home office or flex room. Step outside to enjoy the spacious covered patio, extended patio, and mature landscaping--perfect for relaxation or gatherings. The extended garage adds valuable storage or workspace. Enjoy the wonderful amenities of Tatum Ranch, including nearby parks, trails, shopping, dining and world-class golf. Don't miss this gem!

10005 E Michigan Avenue Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$599,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,075 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781481
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Location is everything for this 3BR, 2BA golf course home in the fun active adult community of Cottonwood in Sun Lakes. Literally steps from the clubhouse and all its many amenities, this meticulously maintained home features a great room w/vaulted ceilings, electric fireplace with stunning, expansive golf course views. Kitchen features painted cabinets, some newer appliances, and an expanded breakfast area with bonus storage. New carpet in all three bedrooms. Large, expanded primary suite w/walk-in shower, dual sinks, modern lighting and a bonus sitting area with extra closet space. Extra deep, south facing covered patio and a serene backyard with mature landscaping. Enjoy the many amenities in Cottonwood: golf, tennis, pickleball, multiple pools, lots of clubs and wonderful restaurants.