HUD also backs an energy-efficient mortgage program that helps home buyers or owners purchase an energy-efficient home, or refinance and remodel their existing home to become more energy-efficient. Almost anyone is eligible to apply for such a mortgage, providing they meet certain income requirements and can prove their ability to pay the loan. The improvements made must also meet eligibility criteria—the total cost of the improvements must be less than the value of the energy that the applicant will save by adding energy-efficient improvements to their home. There is also a limit on the amount of money that can be borrowed for energy-efficient improvements. This is the greater of $4,000 or 5% of the current value of the property.

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