Homeowners are always looking for ways to save money and be energy efficient. With the increasing level of environmental concerns over water usage and various types of pollution, homeowners are seeking alternative ways to care for their property and make them more energy efficient. Many times, converting from traditional to energy efficient materials are more expensive. Energy efficiency may be more costly, but it is well worth the price when you consider the long term savings received through reduced energy use.
What is the HERO Program?
The HERO Program is a financing program being used throughout the United States. Lending institutions work with local government agencies in an attempt to provide residents with cost effective and affordable financial solutions when it comes to making their home more energy efficient. Whether it involves installing a new, energy efficient heating and cooling system or artificial turf to conserve water, the HERO Program has options to help homeowners comply with state and local laws governing the use of some of the state's most precious energy resources.
Benefits of Financing Through the HERO Program
There are several benefits to financing with the HERO Program. Not only does it make the purchase of energy and fuel efficient products more affordable, it takes the stress out of being able to comply with city, local and state ordinances. Compliance in many situations is mandatory and violations carry large fines. While state regulations may vary according to the location, the city and county ordinances can be extremely restrictive, especially when it comes to water usage.
The following benefits are offered to those who choose to finance their energy efficient products through the new program:
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100% of the purchase and price and installation are covered under a HERO Program loan
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Loans with fixed interest rates can be obtained for anywhere between a 5 and 20 year period
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Interest rates are tax deductible
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Payments are conveniently made through the homeowners' property taxes
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Requires no credit score check or requirements
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The payments can legally transferred to the new owner if the property happens to be sold before the HERO Program loan is paid in full.
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Can be used for water efficient, energy efficient or products that use renewable energy resources.
The HERO Program was created to help homeowners realize their goals of making their homes more energy efficient without spending a large amount of cash. Financial and environmental concerns have prompted the city and states governments to help find viable lending solutions for residents who want to make much needed home improvements but don't have the credit necessary to do so.
How The HERO Program Is Helping the Drought Situation in California
In California, one of the biggest environmental concerns is the ever increasing drought conditions. The lack of rain and over use of an already strapped water supply has caused California law makers to create legislation to protect the state's precious water resources. By using the new program and obtaining the financing they need, homeowners can install appliances that conserve water and artificial turf that reduces the need for irrigation.
Lawn care and the water needed to maintain large yards can be extremely costly when it comes to water. It takes several hundred thousand gallons of water each year to keep California lawns looking green and vibrant. One of the ways to eliminate this, is to install artificial turf and drought resistant landscaping plants. Artificial turf can be a costly upgrade. When compared to the cost of maintenance, water usage and equipment upkeep, it becomes much more affordable, especially when you add in its overall lifespan of 15 to 20 years.
