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.

2103 W Claremont Street Phoenix, AZ 85015

$579,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,495 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778124
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Stunning transformed home showcasing meticulous design and lavish upgrades throughout. As you approach, custom security and entry doors welcome you. Upon entering, custom luxury vinyl plank floors flow seamlessly into the open-concept living area. The chef's dream kitchen features top-of-the-line premium appliances, custom cabinetry, and a massive quartz-topped center island. The spacious master suite is a true sanctuary, offering a huge walk-in closet with its own washer and dryer hookup. The luxurious en-suite bathroom features a custom tiled walk-in shower with built-in seating, a freestanding soaking tub, and a double vanity with stylish fixtures. Additionally, the home includes two multi-functional bonus rooms PLUS an indoor enclosed patio. A true dream home!

17675 N Coconino Drive Surprise, AZ 85374

$579,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,393 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780723
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Absolutely stunning move-in ready home exudes elegance and comfort! This beautifully maintained, 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom residence boasts an open floor plan, perfect for entertaining and everyday living. The gourmet kitchen features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and ample storage. The spacious living room is perfect for entertaining. The primary suite is a true retreat, offering a large walk-in closet and luxurious en-suite bathroom with dual sinks, jetted soaking tub and separate walk-in shower. This beautiful home also features a versatile bonus room perfect for a home office. The beautifully landscaped backyard is an oasis, complete with a large patio, perfect for outdoor dining and relaxation. Golf cart garage, stamped concrete drive and pathways, crown molding and mor

1124 S Sycamore Circle Unit 1 Payson, AZ 85541

$579,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,650 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786712
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Wow! Is what you will say when you step into this brand new 2024 Home in Pinon Ridge! 3 bedroom/2 bath open concept with views of the Rim. Take the steps up to this one level home and walk into an open and bright living room with vaulted ceilings which opens up to the covered wrap around deck. The low maintenance yard is ready to put your plants and flowers in the raised bed area. The home backs to reservation land to allow for a very private backyard. Dining Room has amazing views of the Rim, laminate wood flooring throughout, with carpet in the bedrooms Split floor plan with a large primary, private access to the patio, large walk in closet and large en-suite with rock inlayed shower, amazing counter space with dual sinks, Laundry room, 2 Car Garage

4102 S 186th Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85338

$579,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,551 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787071
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in the highly desirable Las Brisas neighborhood of Goodyear, AZ! This exquisite 5-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home, offering 3,551 sq ft of beautifully designed living space, is the perfect blend of modern luxury, family comfort, and energy efficiency. As you step inside, you're greeted by an expansive open floor plan, with a freshly painted kitchen that's sure to impress. This chef-inspired space is equipped with contemporary finishes, ample counter space, and an ideal layout for both everyday meals and entertaining. The main floor also features the spacious primary suite, offering a private retreat complete with a luxurious en-suite bathroom, walk-in closet, and serene views of the backyard oasis. The home's thoughtful design continues with 4 additional bedrooms, a versatile bonus room, and a large loft area, providing endless possibilities for your family's needswhether it's a home office, media room, or play area. Step outside and enjoy your own private sanctuary. The custom pool, with both heating and cooling functions, ensures year-round enjoyment, whether you're swimming in the summer or relaxing on cooler days. The accordion-style back door allows for a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience, ideal for entertaining or enjoying a peaceful evening by the pool. This home also boasts a 3-car garage, providing plenty of space for vehicles and storage, and a leased-to-own solar system, making it an eco-friendly choice that saves on energy costs while keeping the home comfortable year-round. Located in a family-friendly community with top-rated schools, parks, and easy access to major amenities, this home is the perfect place to build lasting memories. Don't miss out on this rare opportunity make this exceptional home yours!

14613 N 44th Place Phoenix, AZ 85032

$579,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,612 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787803
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
WOW! 10+++ METICULOUS 3 bd / 2 bath w/flex room & NO HOA~PORCELAIN tile throughout & NO carpet~VAULTED ceilings throughout except bathrooms & hallways~This home boosts LOTS of natural light & SOLAR-TUBE-SKYLIGHTS~CHAMPION Low E - Dual-paned Anderson windows throughout w/BAY windows in breakfast room & primary bedroom~Open kitchen w/MAPLE cabinets, STAINLESS appliances & GRANITE counter-tops~Living room is open & large w/views of backyard~Primary bedroom w/BAY window, wall-to-wall, lighted closet & spacious bathroom w/door to backyard~SPECTACULAR, LARGE backyard, EXTENDED-COVERED patio w/reflective-coating, NO-STRESS/LOW-MAINTENANCE, ARTIFICIAL TURF, mature CITRUS-TREES & TUFF-SHED~ Some UPGRADES include: 25-year roof, R-22 insulation, garage door insulated, copper plumbing, TRANE heat-pump, water-softener, whole-house-filtration system~Great location and near: Kierland Commons, Scottsdale Quarter & Paradise Valley Mall Redevelopment ALL w/upscale shopping & dining - Also near: Stonecreek Golf Club, Sweetwater Park, Scottsdale Christian Academy & Horizon High School~TV's convey~NO disappointments here! This home is a 10+++ & priced-to-sell!

1425 W Kenrick Drive Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$579,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,190 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6651710
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to a move-in ready home that offers the perfect canvas for your personal touch. Situated in a prime location with stunning views, this property boasts a spacious backyard, setting the stage for a comfortable and personalized living experience. As you explore the home, you'll discover a cozy and inviting layout, featuring multiple rooms that are primed for your creative ideas. Each room is a comfortable space, eagerly awaiting your unique flair. Whether you're interested in adding modern touches, highlighting the home's charming details, or a combination of both, the possibilities are limitless. The private and fully fenced backyard is an ideal setting for a variety of activities. It's a gardener's dream, or a tranquil retreat for those who appreciate peaceful relaxation.

3200 W Black Oak Loop Show Low, AZ 85901

$579,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,550 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6669326
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
This Torreon golf villa offers a comfortable and convenient living space with its 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. It is designed for a lock and leave lifestyle, providing you with peace of mind when you're away. The property features a detached 1-car garage, offering secure parking and additional storage space. Surrounded by a lush canopy of trees, this villa provides a serene and private atmosphere. The covered deck and patio area are perfect for relaxing or entertaining, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The open floorplan creates a spacious and airy feel, while the split layout ensures privacy between the bedrooms. Large spacious kitchen makes meal prep a breeze while guest can accompany around the breakfast bar. Whether you're a golf enthusiast or simply..

18508 N Avalon Lane Surprise, AZ 85374

$579,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,021 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6691782
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This well cared for 2 bedroom,2 bathroom plus den 2,021 square foot property offers many sought after features including a 2.5 car garage. Situated on Granite Falls North Course offering expansive views & beautiful sunsets.18 in tile floors on the diagonal except bedrooms.Kitchen corian counter tops,backsplash,new sink, stainless built in appliances & stone finish at breakfast bar.Extended breakfast nook bay windows with shutters & plenty of room for entertaining.Settle into the great room and take advantage of the gas fireplace finished with stone.Privacy doors at den.Primary suite has door to patio,bay windows,two sinks,separate tub & walk in closet in bathroom.Raised panel doors.Inside laundry with sink,W/D included.Side garage door & built in cabinets.Expaned patio & built in BBQ.

3033 E Millbrae Lane Gilbert, AZ 85234

$579,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,146 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6726711
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MOVE-IN-READY!!! LOTS of CHARM & CHARACTER EVERYWHERE!!! This home is a MUST SEE!!! Full Bedroom & Bathroom DOWNSTAIRS!!! Upon entry, you're wowed by VAULTED CEILINGS, along with two separate living areas, a STUNNING KITCHEN overlooking the main living space, making this the PERFECT HUB OF THE HOME!!! Spend some time outback in your Sparkling POOL, or relax in tub HOT TUB, cook out in your BUILT-IN-BBQ, or even enjoy your very own PUTTING GREEN!!! This backyard is an Entertainer's Dream!!! Workbench area in garage, along with LOTS OF STORAGE!!! This home has it all!!! Home is steps away from a FANTASTIC park with playground area and Basketball courts!! Don't miss out on this one!!!

2319 E Earll Drive Phoenix, AZ 85016

$579,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,416 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747987
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this freshly updated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom gem close to all of the action of Arcadia and Central Phoenix! Boasting a modern, neutral aesthetic with designer touches throughout, it offers comfort and style at every turn. Enjoy outdoor living with covered patios in the front and back, a charming porch swing, and a generously sized backyard complete with a pool and firepit—perfect for entertaining. Additional features include a storage room off the 1-car carport. Conveniently located near freeways, restaurants, and shopping, Enjoy the freedom and flexibility of homeownership with no HOA restrictions.

25024 S Stoney Lake Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$579,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,968 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750372
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautiful 2-bed, 2-bath Plus Office/Den residence on a coveted corner lot! The exterior boasts a striking stone facade, a 2.5-car garage, and a tasteful paver driveway. The inviting living room showcases vaulted ceilings, a soothing palette, and plush carpeting throughout. The eat-in kitchen comes with granite counters, ample wood cabinetry with crown molding, built-in appliances, a center island, and a serving window with a breakfast bar for casual dining. The cozy main bedroom offers direct backyard access, an en suite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. Venture outside to find a covered patio for al fresco dining, a relaxing spa, and a low-maintenance desert landscape. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity! HVAC - 2 Units- Replaced in 2021, Hot water heater replaced 2021, Exterior Painted 2023, New Drip system - valves & timer replaced 2023. Exterior Stone work & Pavers done in 2023. New SPA Hot Tub 2024 Hard wired Security System. Reverse Osmosis.

1509 E Peach Tree Drive Chandler, AZ 85249

$579,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,250 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6757886
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome home to this gorgeously redone 3BR 2BA home in the vibrant active adult community of Sunbird CC. A charming courtyard greets you. Enter a large living/dining area with wood look tile throughout. The stunning kitchen boasts granite counters, crisp white cupboards, bar and newer SS appliances. Large family room with access to the relaxing patio and backyard. Bonus art studio den just off the family room. Enjoy the active adult resort lifestyle with golf, pool, tennis and pickleball. Plus, restaurant, bar and loads of entertainment!