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.

3308 E Jasper Drive Gilbert, AZ 85296

$575,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,537 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747866
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Charming Family Home in Prime Location! This inviting 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath home offers the perfect setting for family living. Featuring a versatile loft space ideal for a playroom, family movie nights, or a cozy home office. The spacious, fully turfed backyard is ready for endless outdoor fun, whether it's for games with the kids or relaxing under the stars. Located just a short walk from local restaurants and stores, this home combines the warmth of family living with the convenience of nearby amenities. A wonderful place to make lasting memories!

28721 N 128th Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$575,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,813 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6749410
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This charming, meticulously cared for home has 2bd/2ba + den and is located on a quiet cul-de-sac in the highly desirable, gated community of Trilogy at Vistancia. This lovely home has many upgrades including central vac, a large eat-in kitchen with loads of storage, s/s gas appliances, and it opens to the great room with a custom wall unit and built-in surround sound. Just off the great room is access to a tranquil, private courtyard complete with a gas fireplace. The backyard has lush landscaping, fire pit, fountain, mister system, artificial turf and generous use of pavers. The upgrades continue in the extended garage which has plenty of storage cabinets, shelving, mop sink, and epoxy floor. You can even listen to music/tv from the great room with the built-in speakers in the garage. You will absolutely love the world class amenities in the active adult community of Trilogy at Vistancia.

17392 W Grant Street Goodyear, AZ 85338

$575,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,148 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753144
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your new home in Canyon Trails! It's a 4-bedroom, 3.5 bath, 3148 sf single-level home on an oversized corner lot with a 3-car tandem garage and RV gate! Enter through the charming courtyard that leads into a home rich with character. Enjoy a spacious open floor-plan with natural light pouring through the windows, neutral custom paint throughout, and a blend of tile and wood-look floors. The large kitchen shines with stainless steel appliances, wall ovens, tons of cabinetry for extra storage, granite countertops, and a large center island with a breakfast bar. Get a good night's sleep in the main suite, featuring backyard access, a sitting area, and a private bathroom with dual vanities, a soaking tub, walk in shower, and walk-in closet. 3 additional bedrooms, including another en-suite, plus a versatile den offers office potential towards the front of the home. Out back you'll find a low maintenance yard with a screened-in patio and Ramada ready for cooler temps! Easy access to major freeways, shopping, dining and Spring Training Games at Goodyear Ballpark. Don't miss out!

9518 W Menadota Drive Peoria, AZ 85382

$575,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,231 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6755883
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
PRICED TO SELL & MOTIVATED SELLER: Experience resort-style living in this immaculate move-in ready home situated in the desirable active adult community of Westbrook Village. Boasting 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and a private pool, this well-appointed residence is perfect for those seeking a luxurious and low-maintenance lifestyle. Enjoy the open great room with soaring ceilings, perfect for entertaining, and the spacious eat-in kitchen designed with the chef in mind. The lavishly remodeled master bathroom and expansive walk-in shower are sure to impress. The beautifully landscaped front and backyards add to the home's excellent curb appeal. Westbrook community offers numerous amenities including rec. centers, golf courses, a restaurant, pools, tennis/pickleball courts, and much more. Located near an array of shopping, dining, and entertainment options and just 20 minutes from the Westgate entertainment district, this home offers the perfect combination of comfort and convenience. UPGRADES: New Roof and AC both with warranties, Sunscreens, security door, 80gal water heater, exterior painted, kitchenAid dishwasher, refrigerator, handicap accessible and more!

3125 W Whitman Drive Anthem, AZ 85086

$575,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,890 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6758961
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
RARE CORNER LOT OPPORTUNITY in ANTHEM Parkside offers a unique lot in that it is adjacent to the grass common area AND no home in front. The N & S sun exposure makes this desirable for the hot summer months. The upgrades and meticulous condition this place has been kept in will provide an easy move in ready opportunity. 3 CAR garage, 6 person Dr. Wellness spa, water feature, built in BBQ with a view fence and so much more! The ultimate entertaining space for friends and family. THIS oasis extends its backyard presence into the MASTER bedroom with NEW Dual pane sliding glass Arcadia doors. If you are someone who appreciates attention to detail, consideration for lower sun exposure, and a more private lot while getting the amenities an HOA community has to offer this could be your match

21527 N 78th Lane Peoria, AZ 85382

$575,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,078 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768859
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN THE FORMER MODEL IS NOW AVAILABLE AND LOADED WITH EXTRAS/ EXCELLENT FLOORPLAN WAS DESIGNED FOR FAMILY LIVING W/ SPACIOUS FAMILY & LIVING ROOMS/ BAY WINDOWS IN BOTH DR & LR/ CUSTOM DISTRESSED WOODWORK AND DECORATIVE STONE ACCENTS GIVE THIS HOME THE ''FLETCHER FARMS FEEL''/ CUSTOM PLANTATION SHUTTERS COVER ALL OF THE WINDOWS/ TILE AND LAMINATE COVER THE FLOORS EXCEPT THE CARPETED BEDROOMS/ KITCHEN HAS UPGRADED CABINERTY, GRANITS TOPS, SS APPLIANCES, GAS STOVE, W/I PANTRY AND GREAT BREAKFAST BAR/ OTHER EXTRAS INCLUDE FANS IN ALL ROOMS, 9' CEILINGS, SECURITY SYSTEM, R/O & SOFT WATER, GAS HOT WATER & HEAT & SUNSCREENS/ THE 3CGARAGE HAS EPOXY FLOORS AND ATTACHED GARAGE CABINETS/ EASY CARE DESERT FRONT YARD AND GRASS REAR FOR THE KIDS/ NICE STORAGE SHED W/ ELECTRIC/ SPACIOUS PAVER PATIO WITH OVERSIZED GAZEBO/ YOUR OWN PARK IS DIAGONAL TO THE HOME A BALL THROW AWAY/ THIS HOME IS MOVE IN READY

341 E Constitution Drive Gilbert, AZ 85296

$575,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,156 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765967
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home, ideally located in a quiet cul-de-sac near Ray and Gilbert Rd in the heart of Gilbert! This stunning single-story, 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home offers a bright and airy interior with hardwood floors and tile in the main living areas, and carpet in the bedrooms for maximum comfort. The inviting great room features a cozy fireplace with a custom mantel, perfect for relaxing evenings. The open kitchen is great for entertaining, equipped with stainless steel appliances, updated light fixtures, and a charming eat-in breakfast nook. Step outside to your backyard oasis, complete with a PebbleTec pool, spa, and real grass for outdoor enjoyment. A custom mural adds an artistic touch to the space. The home also boasts a 3-car garage, complete with an extra electrical sub-panel, ideal for a workshop. Plus, there's an RV gate with a cement pad for all your storage needs. With solar panels to keep electric bills low, this home is as efficient as it is beautiful. Don't miss your chance to own this exceptional property in a prime Gilbert location!

12568 W Chucks Avenue Peoria, AZ 85383

$575,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,162 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767402
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
BACK ON MARET! Welcome to Vistancia! NEWLY UPDATED Kitchen, Countertops, Bathrooms, Paint, and Flooring Throughout The Home. This 4-bed, 2-bath home offers a wonderful opportunity to live in a top ranking master planned community, with pools, playgrounds, schools, shopping, dinning, sports, and entertainment options nearby. This is a well-maintained single level home with rare 3-car garage, with mountain views & no neighbors behind you. The open concept, split floor plan ensures privacy and easy entertaining. Conveniently located near amenities in Peoria and twenty minutes from Lake Pleasant.

8912 N Johnson Court Maricopa, AZ 85139

$575,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,500 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773783
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
**Motivated sellers!! Beautiful 1,500 sq. ft. 3 bed, 2 bath home on a 4.2-acre property. This handcrafted single-story residence offers a spacious split floor plan, a large chef's kitchen with a great room concept, and modern cabinetry. The home is filled with natural light thanks to numerous windows and an Arcadia door leading to outdoor living spaces. The master bedroom features both a walk-in closet and a linen closet. Take in the stunning mountain views with true indoor/outdoor Arizona living with front and rear covered patios. Located at the end of a cul-de-sac with no HOA, perfect for those who want to bring their toys and enjoy the serene horse-friendly environment. This property is ready to be your dream home.

10260 E White Feather Lane Unit 2048 Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$575,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,381 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774632
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
This lock-and-leave condo in Troon North has been refreshed and repriced for a quick sale, offering an unbeatable value for luxury living. The motivated seller has completely painted this 2-bed, 2-bath unit, 1 car garage making it spotless, fresh and move-in ready. Enjoy endless amenities, including a heated pool and spa, fitness center, and a BBQ area for outdoor dining steps from this unit. The community features pickleball and tennis courts, and is tucked just inside the Troon North Golf Club, ranked Top 10 public course in AZ with two championship Tom Weiskopf designed courses. Perfect for seasonal or year-round living, this is your chance to enjoy the Scottsdale lifestyle at an incredible price! Book your private tour today! Easy to show, ready for you to make North Scottsdale HOME!

7380 W Paraiso Drive Glendale, AZ 85310

$575,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,410 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772726
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
What makes Hillcrest so popular is LOCATION! 4 bedroom 3 bath on over a 10,000 sq. ft cul-de-sac lot. 3 car garage with extra concrete parking, RV gate, beautiful pool with water feature and security fencing. Very private spacious backyard with covered patio, built-in BBQ, newly installed artificial grass area, and mature landscaping. New roof in 2022 with 10 warranty, freshly painted inside and out, island kitchen with granite countertops.

1339 N Tucana Lane Gilbert, AZ 85234

$575,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,274 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778780
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautiful 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home sits on a large 8,764 sqft lot in a beautiful community. With a FULLY OWNED solar system for energy efficiency, the 2,274 sqft home features a gas fireplace and neutral-tone walls, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Sunscreen windows help keep the home cool and bright. The kitchen boasts a spacious island, sleek countertops, plenty of maple cabinets, an eat-in area, and formal dining space. The large bedrooms, including a primary suite with a walk-in closet, provide ample comfort. The extended covered back patio overlooks a serene yard with matures trees and grass. With a 3-car garage and community amenities such as a park and basketball court, this home offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience!