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Home Inspector with Certified Structure Inspector IOS #1730, EA #30

If you’re in Real Estate in Reno you have probably heard of the FHA Energy Efficient Mortgage. This is FHA option has been on the loan docs for a while now but is very underutilized in Northern Nevada. With budgets tighter and the movement to be more environmentally responsible about 92% of buyers are concerned with energy costs. Homes with oil, propane, or electric heat are even more expensive to heat. This is where the EEM comes in.

A buyer can finance the energy improvements at the time of purchase. The additional cost of the loan is offset by the energy savings. But one of the best parts is that there is also rebate money available.

The Energy Fit Nevada program coupled with the EEM is a winning combination. The rebate money can allow the buyers to get even more retrofits that will make the home more efficient, comfortable, healthier, and more durable. If people sign up before December 31st they could qualify for up to $3000 in rebates.

Inform your buyers of home built before 2000 about this program. Getting a better home and free repairs is sure to get you great referrals. 

This is not a 203k and is very easy to do for all parties involved. It can be added to a 203k though.

If you would like more information about the EEM here in Reno contact me. I’m not only a Home Inspector but an Energy Auditor that provides the ratings for the EEM and I’m a partner in the Energy Fit Program. I can also help with lenders, contractors, and agents that are able to complete this loan. 

Comments(3)

Robert Butler
Aspect Inspection - Montreal West Island, QC
Montreal Home Inspector | Aspect Inspection

If, as you say "Homes with oil, propane, or electric heat are even more expensive to heat." , What types of heating do you consider less expensive? 

Solar is not universally applicable. Geothermal heat pumps have to have the initial investment (usually mortgaged) costs factored in.

Wood and coal is similar or greater cost, so what is left?

Dec 05, 2012 11:01 PM
Rob Ernst
Certified Structure Inspector - Reno, NV
Reno, NV-775-410-4286 Inspector & Energy Auditor

The cheapest is natural gas which the majority of home are here.

Natural gas is about .50 where for the same amount of heat Electric would be almost $3, Propane at least $3.25, and oil around $2.90.

Dec 06, 2012 02:45 PM
Robert Butler
Aspect Inspection - Montreal West Island, QC
Montreal Home Inspector | Aspect Inspection

There is gas available here , but not in all areas yet. It is comparable to oil in price so it is not automatically cheaper, at least so far.

Dec 10, 2012 01:26 AM