This page is meant to provide some basic information on the FHA Energy Efficient Mortgage program. The information is NOT all-inclusive and should be used for guidance only. If you need further information, you should contact a lender like myself who is familiar with the guidelines before submitting a purchase offer on a home.
General Overview
FHA’s Energy Efficient Mortgage program (EEM) helps homebuyers or homeowners save money on utility bills by enabling them to finance the cost of adding energy efficiency features to new or existing housing as part of their FHA insured home purchase or refinancing mortgage. 
EEM is one of many FHA programs that insure mortgage loans–and thus encourage lenders to make mortgage credit available to borrowers who would not otherwise qualify for conventional loans on affordable terms (such as first time homebuyers) and to residents of disadvantaged neighborhoods (where mortgages may be hard to get). Borrowers who obtain FHA’s popular Section 203(b) Mortgage Insurance (the “standard” FHA-backed loan) for one to four family homes are eligible for approximately 96.5 percent financing, and are able to fold closing costs and the upfront mortgage insurance premium into the mortgage. The borrower must also pay an annual premium.
EEM can also be used with the FHA Section 203(k) rehabilitation program and generally follows that program’s financing guidelines.
Eligible Customers
All persons who meet the income requirements for a standard FHA-backed loan and can make the monthly mortgage payments are eligible to apply. The cost of the energy improvements and estimate of the energy savings must be determined by a home energy rating system (HERS) or an energy consultant. The cost of an energy inspection report and related fees may be included in the mortgage. Cooperative units are not eligible.
Eligibility Requirements
The energy efficient improvements must be cost effective, meaning that the total cost of the improvements is less than the total present value of the energy saved over the useful life of the energy improvement.
The cost of the energy improvements and estimate of the energy savings must be determined by a home energy rating report that is prepared by an ebergy consultant using a Home Energy Rating System (HERS). The cost of the energy rating report and inspections may be financed as part of the cost effective energy price.
The energy improvements are installed after the loan closes. The lender will place the money in an escrow account. The money will be released to the borrower after an inspection verifies that the improvements are installed and the energy savings will be achieved.
How to get an Energy Efficient Mortgage
If you need more information, please contact us at 219-695-0369. If you are ready for an energy efficient mortgage, you may apply here.
source: Department of Housing and Urban Development
