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.

117 E Vaughn Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85234

$575,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,379 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775846
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This move-in ready gem is just steps away from vibrant Downtown Gilbert, where numerous dining, shopping, and entertainment experiences await! It is also beautifully remodeled with upgraded flooring, bathrooms, kitchen, windows, doors, paint, fixtures, and more inside. PLUS! Outside boasts new roof and paver patio. The main house features 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, and a 160 sq ft detached bonus room with a half bath can be used as a playroom or office — offering endless possibilities to suit your lifestyle. The large yard has mature shade trees. Your new home perfectly blends vintage charm with modern conveniences. Don't miss your chance to own a piece of history in this fantastic location in Downtown Gilbert! No HOA.

7425 W Willow Avenue Peoria, AZ 85381

$575,000
6 Beds
3 Baths
3,596 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786127
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover your dream home in the heart of Peoria, offering a perfect balance of space, style, and convenience. This spacious 3,596-square-foot residence features six bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a three-car garage with built-in cabinets, plus an RV gate for additional convenience. Located close to top-rated schools, shopping, dining, and freeway access, this home offers both comfort and accessibility. Inside, the bright and open layout includes a large living room and formal dining area, perfect for gatherings. The open eat-in kitchen is a chef's dream, boasting a breakfast bar island, pantry, stainless steel appliances, and plenty of counter and storage space. Adjacent to the kitchen, the family room provides a cozy setting with sliding glass doors leading to the backyard, creating seamless indoor-outdoor living. A downstairs bedroom offers flexibility for guests, in-laws, or a home office, while the upstairs features the primary suite and additional spacious bedrooms to suit every need. Step outside to a backyard designed for relaxation and entertainment, featuring a Pebble-Tec diving pool and a covered patio ideal for outdoor dining. The large yard provides plenty of space for activities or simply soaking up the Arizona sun. With its generous space, thoughtful design, and prime location, this Peoria gem is ready to become your forever home!

3705 E Toltec Court Sierra Vista, AZ 85650

$575,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,595 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6662115
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautiful, spacious 5BD/3.5BA/3CG, 3595 sq ft home is located in Sierra Vista, AZ near Fort Huachuca, Canyon Vista Medical Center, shopping, and schools. This home has a stunning kitchen with granite countertops, two large living areas, travertine tile floors, and a spacious backyard! The home is all electric and includes a double oven, two a/c units, two septic tanks, and a spacious garage. This home is the definition of space and comfort! Call today!

27967 N Limestone Lane San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

$575,000
6 Beds
4 Baths
3,751 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6731914
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Priced BELOW appraised value. Recently appraised at $613K. Discover your dream home with a breathtaking backyard oasis, complete with picturesque mountain views and no rear neighbors, ensuring your privacy. This immaculate 6-bedroom, 4-full bath residence is set on a generous 1/3-acre lot. The outdoor haven features a dive pool, with vibrant LED color lighting, perfect for year-round enjoyment, thanks to the Jandy Pro Series heating and cooling pump. Relax under the pergola and take in the serene landscape. 2nd floor has 5 oversized beds & 3 full baths PLUS LOFT. Saves on utilities. Recent updates include remodeled bathrooms in 2023 and a kitchen remodel in 2024, including a secondary island install! This home is sure to be one you will love for years to come! Inside, the first floor offers a versatile layout with a bedroom and full bath, including a therapy tub/spa for ultimate relaxation. Entertain in the formal living and dining rooms, or gather in the cozy family room. The 2024 kitchen remodel featuring a double island and walk in pantry are a chef's delight. Conveniently, the laundry room is also located on this level. Ascend to the second floor, where you'll find five additional bedrooms, three full baths, and a loft area, providing ample space for family and guests. The oversized master suite is a true retreat, capable of accommodating any sized furniture, and offers stunning backyard and mountain views. The luxurious master bath features a walk-in shower, double sinks, and an expansive walk-in closet. This home has seen some recent upgrades including a 2024 kitchen remodel as well as 2023 Bathroom Remodels. Don't miss the opportunity to own this exceptional property, where luxury and comfort blend seamlessly with beautiful natural surroundings.

7231 W Lone Cactus Drive Glendale, AZ 85308

$575,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,080 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6731707
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Back on the market! Buyer could not meet their contingency. **MOTIVATED SELLER** This meticulously maintained 4-bed, 2-bath home in the desirable Sierra Verde neighborhood, within Arrowhead Ranch, is ready for you to make it your own. Spacious bedrooms and ideal for entertaining. The kitchen & family room create a central hub, formal living and dining areas offer a touch of elegance. Large backyard with mature trees & oversized grassy area, perfect for gatherings or simply relaxing under the Arizona sky. This home boasts a recently replaced AC unit (2023) and a newer water heater, ensuring worry-free comfort. A+ Schools, lakes, walking paths, close to 101, golf, restaurants, shopping & sports complexes. Don't miss your chance to own this gem in a sought-after neighborhood

5095 N Grand Drive Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$575,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,705 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6733476
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Enjoy awesome Goldfield and Superstition Mountain views from this 3 bedroom, 2 bath home situated on 1.25 acre. The open floor plan is enhanced with lots of natural light, vaulted ceiling and tile floors. Kitchen is complete with ample cabinets, granite counters, center island, wine bar and all appliances. Master suite offers large walk-in closet, spacious tile shower, dual vanities and exit to the extended front patio...A perfect place to enjoy amazing sunrises and sunsets while relaxing in the hot tub. The block fencing ensures privacy and defines multiple areas for additional garage space, horse facilities or room to roam.

1065 W Road 2 -- Chino Valley, AZ 86323

$575,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,305 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6738551
Property Type Manufactured Home
Price Type --
Welcome to your own slice of heaven. This gorgeous fully fenced 2.5 acre corner lot is what your dreams are made of ! Freshly painted home is 2300' of complete luxury with a country charm. Upgraded carpet and flooring throughout, new SS appliances, stunning quartz countertops w/ large island, insta hot, central vacuum, new heat pump A/C. Upgraded insulation pkg., Property has good producing well with filtration system, landscaped yard with rear yard fencing and oversized 3car garage w/ automatic gate access and concrete driveway. Bring your animals and your toys ! you don't want to miss this one.

725 W Palo Verde Street Gilbert, AZ 85233

$575,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,501 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6741137
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Wonderful 5 bed, 3 bath home with pool in prime Gilbert location! Top features include: high ceilings in family room, beautiful stone feature wall in dining room, wood burning fireplace in living room off the kitchen, newer SS appliances in the kitchen, bedroom & full bathroom on main level, 3 oversized bedrooms upstairs, huge primary suite w/ jetted soaking tub & tiled walk-in shower, and all rooms have blinds & ceilings fans. Backyard offers a covered patio, entertainers area w/built-in table, seating around firepit, BBQ area, & a built-in chiminea. Pebble tec pool is fenced & has a variable speed pump, and large grassy area as well. All of this just a couple miles from Downtown Gilbert, highway access, restaurants, shopping, hospitals, and so much more. Make it yours today!

2760 S Seton Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85295

$575,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,274 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6741953
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This enchanting 4-bedroom home in the serene Chaparral Estates is the one for you! This home is sure to check all the boxes, boasting a 3 car garage, split floor plan, high ceilings and a corner lot! As you enter, the living room sets a warm ambiance for relaxation. Host festive meals in the formal dining area and make memories in the spacious great room.The kitchen features rich wood cabinets, built-in appliances, a pantry, expansive counters, and a center island with a breakfast bar. Retreat to the expansive main suite, accessible via double doors, featuring a private bath with dual sinks, a soaking tub, and a walk-in closet. Outside, the covered patio and lush grassy area offer a perfect setting for outdoor enjoyment. This home is truly a treasure, ideal for creating cherished moments! Recent updates include fresh interior paint, brand new carpet in all of the bedrooms, and 2 new AC units! Location is A+, walking distance to one of the schools, nearby the San Tan Village and Agritopia ! MUST SEE!!

19052 N 39th Way Phoenix, AZ 85050

$575,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,992 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6761701
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
*** FREE 1% RATE BUYDOWN AVAILABLE FOR THE FIRST 12 MONTHS*** Step into this beautifully maintained single-level home nestled in the sought-after Trovare community. From the moment you arrive, you'll appreciate the low-maintenance front yard and expansive driveway with room for three cars. Inside, the spacious living room welcomes you with warmth, while a charming office space, tucked behind elegant French doors, provides the perfect setting for productivity. At the heart of the home, a cozy gas fireplace with a striking stone hearth draws your attention, seamlessly complementing the stunning stone-wrapped kitchen island, ideal for gatherings of any kind. Down the hallway, you'll discover three generously sized bedrooms, offering comfort and privacy for all. The backyard is an an oasis of tranquility, where you can savor peaceful sunsets amidst lush natural grass and mature landscaping. This home truly has it all, space, style, and serenity!

7635 W Rock Springs Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$575,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,079 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6718396
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This stunning single-level home is located in a highly desirable Rock Springs neighborhood, offering the perfect blend of comfort and luxury. The property features outstanding curb appeal with its beautifully landscaped front yard and an inviting entrance. As you step inside, you are greeted by an open room concept with an eat-in kitchen that boasts beautiful lighting, and in the kitchen you have granite countertops, an oversized sink, and a double wall oven with an electric cooktop. The kitchen also includes a spacious walk-in pantry and ample storage, making it a chef's dream. The oversized primary bedroom is a retreat in itself, complete with a large walk-in closet and an en-suite bathroom that offers dual sinks, a separate tub and shower, and private water closet. Two large guest bedrooms come with extra tall closets and ceiling fans, providing comfort and convenience. The living areas are designed for both relaxation and entertainment, featuring tile flooring throughout, with plush carpeting in the bedrooms. The home extends its living space to the outdoors with an extended back patio featuring two ceiling fans, perfect for enjoying the Arizona weather. The backyard is a serene oasis with artificial turf, natural vegetation, and a dog run on the side yard. Additional features include a 2-car garage and a functional laundry room. This property is a true gem, offering a perfect combination of indoor luxury and outdoor tranquility.

1639 E Redfield Road Gilbert, AZ 85234

$575,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,820 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750971
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
ALL ELECTRIC* ZERO UTILITY BILLS *MONTHLY REBATE FROM SRP* TOP OF THE LINE TESLA SOLAR SYSTEM WILL BE PAID OFF AT THE CLOSE OF ESCROW.* *HIGH EFFICIENCY HVAC SYSTEM 2023* *WOOD FLOORING AND CARPET 2024* *HALL BATH ENLARGE AND REMODEL 2024* *TESLA SOLAR SYSTEM 2022* PERFECT FAMILY HOME IN SONOMA RANCH. GREAT SCHOOLS CLOSE BY, NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS, BEAUTIFUL YARD WITH SWIMMING POOL. NORTH SOUTH FACING HOME. HOME IS MOVE IN READY.