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.

13532 N 146th Lane Surprise, AZ 85379

$579,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,743 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764564
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
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2118 W Hemingway Court Anthem, AZ 85086

$579,900
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,120 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779175
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning 5-Bedroom Home with Modern Amenities Near Parks and Schools! Welcome to your dream home! This spacious 5-bedroom, 3-full-bathroom residence offers the perfect blend of comfort and style, ideal for families and entertaining alike. Nestled in a friendly neighborhood, you'll enjoy walking distance to parks and schools, making it a convenient choice for active lifestyles. Step inside to discover an updated kitchen that will delight any chef, featuring sleek stainless steel appliances, a gas stove, and ample counter space for meal prep. The open layout flows seamlessly into the dining and living areas, creating an inviting atmosphere for gatherings. The master suite boasts a private bath, providing a serene retreat after a long day. Four additional well-sized bedrooms offer plenty of space for family, guests, or a home office. With three full bathrooms, mornings will be a breeze for everyone! The three-car garage provides ample storage for vehicles and outdoor gear, making it easy to keep everything organized. Outside, the yard offers room for play and relaxation, perfect for enjoying warm evenings or weekend barbecues. Don't miss the chance to make this beautiful home yours and experience all that this wonderful property has to offer!

12687 W Paradise Lane Surprise, AZ 85378

$579,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,683 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6597550
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
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$579,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,528 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6650676
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
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1521 W Garfield Street Phoenix, AZ 85007

$579,900
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,059 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6716799
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Amazing 2 bed, 2.5 bath home updated & reimagined by one of the members of its original family! The formal entry opens to an large greatroom. There's a spacious kitchen with 5 burner gas range, upgraded cabinetry, gorgeous granite counters, stainless steel appliances & elegant tile backsplash. A fantastic place to gather & entertain! The ground floor has an owner's suite w/ tiled shower, powder room & large office/utility room. The upstairs was designed as a second owner's suite, complete with its own ensuite & balcony. It's large enough to enclose an additional bedroom or use as a mother-in-law suite. The home has been updated with a reinforced foundation, newer roof & HVAC (mini-splits). Perfect as a SFD or multi-generational home & just minutes from downtown. Welcome home!

7517 N 86th Avenue Glendale, AZ 85305

$579,900
5 Beds
2 Baths
2,628 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6718483
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
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298 W Tulsa Street Chandler, AZ 85225

$579,900
5 Beds
3 Baths
1,626 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6782769
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
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4245 S Boulder Street Gilbert, AZ 85297

$579,900
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,402 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6727334
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautiful 5-bedroom, 3-bath, 2-story home features new carpet in the bedrooms and fresh interior paint throughout, creating a welcoming ambiance. The open kitchen and living area boast stainless steel appliances, including a dishwasher, microwave, and range, perfect for modern living. Upstairs, you'll find a spacious loft and additional bedrooms, providing ample space for family and guests.

7602 E Thomas Road Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$579,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,628 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6728718
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Fully Remodeled, Move in ready, centrally located. Come see this Charming home, New Roofing, New Laminated Flooring, New Light Fixtures, New Texture, New Doors, New Kitchen Cabinets with Granite Counter Tops, New Bathroom Tiled Showers. New Windows. Agents Bring your buyers they will not be disappointed.

16951 W Villagio Drive Surprise, AZ 85387

$579,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,075 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6733430
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
CLEAN & PRISTINE SIERRA THAT BACKS TO COMMON AREA WITH NO BACK TO BACK NEIGHBORS & PRIVATE PATIO. PRE-PAID SOLAR LEASE, COVERAGE UNTIL 5/2044, MONTHLY APS BILLS AVERAGE $55 PER MONTH. RECENT UPGRADES INCLUDE PLANTATION SHUTTERS, BEAUTIFUL GRANITE & CUSTOM CABINETRY IN KITCHEN, CENTER ISLAND, MASTER & GUEST BATHROOMS. THE LIGHT/BRIGHT KITCHEN IS COMPLETE WITH BUILT-STAINLESS WALL OVEN, MICROWAVE, 5 BURNER GAS COOKTOP & REFRIGERATOR & BRIGHT OFFICE/DEN HAS DOUBLE DOORS. WINDOW WORLD DOUBLE PANE, TRIPLE COATED LOW E WINDOWS HAVE BEEN ADDED THROUGHOUT HOME. EXTENDED GARAGE HAS WORKBENCH, CABINETS, OVERHEAD STORAGE, NEWER HVAC, HOT WATER TANK & HOT WATER RECIRCULATION SYSTEM. EXPANDED SOUTH FACING, PRIVATE PATIO CREATES THE IDEAL SETTING FOR ENTERTAINING FAMILY AND FRIENDS.

13965 W Woodbridge Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85395

$579,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,645 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6730972
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Spacious 2650 sq ft single story home located at the end of a quiet culdesac in beatiful Palm Valley. 4 bedrooms 3 bathrooms with a den that can be used as a 5th bedroom. Huge main bedroom with walkin closet. Huge granite top kitchen with over plenty of cabinets, walk in pantry and huge island countertop overlooking a huge great room and backyard. Formal dining rm across from kitchen. Full access to Palm Valley comm Rec center huge pool club house basketball etc. This home has been a rental property for many years and owners want to retire. Home is in great shape and may need some tlc. Owner may give some discount or give a cash credit back to buyer at COE for justified tlc. All offers will be reviewed. Seller may carry short term with 10% down with approved application.

23086 E Thornton Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$579,900
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,116 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6744050
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
SELLER OFFERING $10,000 CONCESSION!! Rare 5-bedroom home in Barney Farms built in 2021. Enjoy this premier community in a resort setting, with a deep-water lake at the heart of it all. The community center inspires a healthy active lifestyle with an aquatic center, pickle ball courts, sand volleyball, and numerous parks, playgrounds, and trails to enjoy. This home has a fun putting green in the backyard for more laid-back leisure and a cozy patio. The front room comes complete with a built-in Murphy bed and shelves to make a perfect office / guest bedroom. A ''collar-controlled'' smart doggie door provides security and convenience for the little loved ones. The best part is a split floorplan perfect for multi-generational living or working at home. You'll love this new home!