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.

6418 W Irma Lane Glendale, AZ 85308

$580,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,834 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6774108
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Brand New Roof in 2024! Absolutely Stunning 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, Single Level Home Located on Premium Golf Course Lot, Formal Living & Dining Room w/Vaulted Ceilings, Upgraded Kitchen w/Custom Cabinets & Granite Countertops, Kitchen Island w/Breakfast Bar, Stainless Steel Appliances Included, Family Room w/Wood Burning Fireplace, Master Bedroom w/Walk-In Closet, Master Bathroom w/Dual Sinks, Custom Walk-In Shower & Tub, Tile Throughout Home, Dual Pane Windows, Plantation Shutters, Extended Covered Backyard Patio, Professionally Landscaped Front & Backyard, Variety Of Mature Citrus Trees, Best Backyard in the Community with over Quarter Acre Lot & Wonderful Views of the Golf Course, 2 Car Garage, Cul-De-Sac Lot, Come Check It Out!

2702 E Saddlebrook Road Gilbert, AZ 85298

$580,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,044 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769751
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Must see this gorgeous home in highly desirable Adora Trails! Fall in love the minute you pull up; N/S exposure, pavered drive way, wrought iron security door. Neutral colors throughout, split floorplan w/ spacious great room. Wood shutters and crown molding. Gourmet kitchen w/ gas cooktop, granite, R/O system, backsplash, pull out shelves, walk in pantry and SS appliances. 3 bdrm, 2 bath + Den with glass french doors. Garage has built in cabinets & workbench. Laundry room has built in cabinets. Owner suite has classy closet. Owner has taken excellent care of this home adding gutters & fully landscaped backyard w/ grass, trees & areas to relax/entertain in covered space. Very desirable Adora Trails is master planned to include a variety of community & lifestyle amenities! Don't Miss out!

710 W 18th Street Tempe, AZ 85281

$580,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,792 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6743870
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
1-0 BUY DOWN AVAILABLE WITH THE PREFERRED LENDER! This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath home is nestled with a gated courtyard, you'll immediately appreciate the serene grass area and shaded patio. The inviting family room seamlessly connects to the entertainer's kitchen, which features a farmhouse sink, stainless steel appliances, and more than ample storage. The warm-toned granite countertops offer generous space, including a breakfast bar and a versatile bar/desk area. The primary bedroom boasting a stylish en suite bath, complete with a spacious walk-in shower and walk-in closet. You'll love the additional storage options, including a hall room for pantry items or a spare refrigerator, a large laundry area with a folding counter and drawer storage, and a dedicated cabinet filled pet/craft/ sport equipment space. The rear bonus room provides flexibility...it could serve as a living, dining, or media room and opens directly to the backyard. Enjoy outdoor living on the expansive rear patio featuring a gazebo, synthetic grass, and a firepit. Plus, the property includes an expansive covered RV parking area, large sturdy sheds, and a garage workshop for all your storage or creative needs. This home truly offers both comfort and functionality! Plus, Clark Park is right next door and is a fantastic place with a wide range of amenities! Here's a quick overview of what you can enjoy there: Community Center: Great for classes, events, and community gatherings. Pool & Splashpad: Perfect for cooling off and having fun in the water. Basketball Courts: Ideal for pickup games or practice. Baseball Diamond: A spot for baseball games and activities. Dog Park: A dedicated space for your furry friends to play. Grills: For BBQs and outdoor cooking. Horseshoes Pit: A fun game for social gatherings. Ramadas: Shaded areas for picnics and parties. Volleyball Court: A place for beach-style volleyball games. Community Garden: A spot to grow plants and vegetables. Playground: A great area for kids to play and explore. It seems like Clark Park has something for everyone, whether you're looking to stay active, relax, or enjoy time with family and friends. Bus and light rail access is nearby - perfect for high school and college student/faculty commuting!

19591 W Lincoln Street Buckeye, AZ 85326

$580,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,428 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6748422
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautifully upgraded home is the one you've been looking for! Step inside to be greeted by an expansive interior, where soaring ceilings and a calming, contemporary color scheme create a serene ambiance. The sleek tile flooring and modern recessed lighting enhance the sophisticated atmosphere. The kitchen is a true chef's delight, featuring ample cabinetry with elegant crown molding, luxurious quartz countertops, and state-of-the-art stainless steel appliances. The large island, with its breakfast bar, serves as the centerpiece of this culinary haven, complemented by a walk-in pantry that offers plenty of storage. Upstairs, a versatile loft space is ideal for a home office, media room, or play area. The primary suite is a sanctuary of comfort, bathed in natural light and offering a pristine ensuite with dual vanities and a spacious walk-in closet. The impressive outdoor space is designed for entertaining. The extended patio provides a perfect setting for gatherings, whether for a quiet evening or a lively celebration. This is a rare opportunity to own a truly exceptional home, don't miss out!

20627 W Luke Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396

$580,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,577 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752899
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover this charming 1,577 sq. ft. Single story home located in the vibrant Victory District of Verrado, a premier 55+ active adult community. This beautifully designed residence features 2 spacious bedrooms, a versatile den perfect for a home office and 2 modern bathrooms. With a layout that emphasizes comfort and functionality, you'll enjoy open-concept living areas, stylish finishes, and access to the community's extensive amenities, including golf courses, pickle ball, tennis courts, pools, walking trails, and social clubs. Ideal for those seeking an active, engaging lifestyle in a welcoming neighborhood.

1548 N Seton Street Mesa, AZ 85205

$580,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,009 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784023
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Updated family home in Alta Mesa. Large corner lot. Home has been stylishly updated. Both bathrooms have double sink and recently updated. Kitchen is huge and open to large family room. Updated countertops and flooring. Large patio doors from family room and master bedroom make for a lovely indoor/outdoor feel. Large master bedroom and walk in closet. Fireplace in family room has been recently updated. Mature landscaping makes the backyard truly an oasis. Large diving pool with hot tub. Huge mature ficus trees and citrus trees. Large side yards and L shaped porch. Three car garage with additional storage. Two sheds in the backyard for additional storage. One shed has been built to be an office. Has power, AC and finished walls and flooring.

9401 S 51st Street Phoenix, AZ 85044

$580,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,677 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6647719
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NEW Roof**NEW kitchen stainless appliances, and pull out drawers in all lower cabinets*** NEW water heater*** NEW fresh paint interior*** blinds on all windows, custom closets in master bedroom and bedroom 2 ** Elegant golf course home boasts a spacious island kitchen wit. The windows offer views of the landscaped turf yard. Vaulted ceilings and custom shutters are featured throughout. The upstairs primary bedroom suite includes a balcony with views of the 7th fairway. Additional amenities include a living room fireplace and hardwood floors. With one bedroom downstairs, golf and gym memberships available, and surrounding hiking trails, there's plenty to enjoy. The 3rd car garage can be converted back to a garage. This beautiful home is move-in ready for your client

20903 S 185th Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$580,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,920 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6770353
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This incredible home is MOVE IN READY!! Comes complete with refrigerator, hot tub, and large shed!! You're going to love living in this open concept home with 10 ft ceilings and large windows with a backyard perfect for lounging, entertaining or relaxing in the hot tub! RV Gate with extra concrete drive for parking, and additional storage space behind the gate! Air conditioned garage space with epoxy floors and loads of cabinets is perfect for parking or working on projects! With kitchen and bathroom updates, and new flooring this home is in excellent condition and you're going to love living here! Located on the Gilbert/Queen Creek border you're just minutes from QC Marketplace and San Tan Village shopping, dining & entertainment options! Don't let this one get away!

16233 W Mohave Street Goodyear, AZ 85338

$580,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,064 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6703699
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
So Fresh and So Clean! 4bd/2.5ba/3car. This home sits on a 9600 sqft lot, backing south, and adjacent to a wash so no neighbors to the West. Custom configured by the owners, the features list includes utility bill saving solar panels! Kitchen has custom pullout drawers in EVERY cabinet, Hood with 36' gas cooktop, double oven and granite countertops. The great room and kitchen/dining flow seamlessly into one another for an open concept. Off the entry the formal dining has been converted into an office/flex room. All tile flooring was laid with a unique 70/30% pattern. Primary bedroom is massive measuring at 17.9'x16.9'. Upgrades in the last 3 years include all new landscape irrigation with pvc pipe, both AC units, exterior paint. Nothing left to do but buy it and move right in!!!

1357 W Port A Sail Drive Gilbert, AZ 85233

$580,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
1,797 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6741454
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This stunning waterfront home in gated community offers breathtaking views with three bedrooms, third bedroom converted to an office, and three full baths. Freshly painted, this two-story residence exudes modern elegance and charm. The gourmet kitchen boasts granite countertops, newer appliances, and opens to a sunlit dining area, perfect for entertaining. The living room, featuring water views and a wood-burning fireplace. Each bedroom serves as a private haven, with the primary suite offering a luxurious en-suite bath. Outside, the beautifully landscaped yard, complete with turf and mature trees, provides the perfect setting for relaxing and enjoying the waterfront lifestyle. 2 A/C units 2020, water heater 2021, kitchen appliances 2021, lighting and house painted 20

10536 W Villa Hermosa -- Peoria, AZ 85383

$580,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,493 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6744672
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NO HOA!!! Highly sought after North Peoria home featuring a 3-car garage & a welcoming covered entry. Inside, you'll find 3 bedrooms plus a versatile den, along with family & living rooms, and a formal dining area—perfect for gatherings & relaxation. The kitchen has elegant granite counters, including a charming round granite table that stays, and convenient soft-closing cabinet drawers & doors. The master suite offers a spacious walk-in closet with custom shelving & access to the 3rd car garage. Buyer to choose between a sleek glass shower front or a restored separate shower/tub before close of escrow. Fall in love with the expansive enclosed patio & outdoor kitchen area. Conveniently located near schools, shopping, and entertainment, this home is ready for you to move in and enjoy!

3061 E Santa Rosa Drive Gilbert, AZ 85234

$580,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,267 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6741746
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful two-story gem in Gilbert is the one! This magnificent residence is located near hospitals, restaurants, shopping spots, and more. You'll love the remodeled interior featuring a generous open layout enhanced with decorative light fixtures, soothing paint, and luxury vinyl plank flooring. Spotless kitchen is a chef's dream, including SS appliances, quartz counters, recessed lighting, white shaker cabinetry, a subway tile backsplash, and an island with a breakfast bar. Discover a sizable loft upstairs, ideal for an additional living space! Retreat to the spacious double door entry main suite, a full ensuite, and a walk-in closet. Continue onto the lovely backyard, with a built-in BBQ, artificial turf, a hot tub, and a refreshing pool ready to enjoy.