Frequently Asked Questions

Here are a few of the common ones that we get, along with answers to the questions. Contact us if any of your questions are not answered here.

Apply & Get Approved

  • How do I know if my home is eligible for the financing program?

    The program is available in approximately half of the counties in Florida. It is a financing program approved by the State of Florida and authorized by local governments. Please click here to find the county you live in & what cities within your county are currently available.

  • What states do you offer the financing program in?

    We are currently concentrating on the entire state of Florida where the eligible locations are approved. We plan on entering into the state of Missouri next.

  • How do I apply?

    To apply for a no risk and no obligation information, please click here to fill out the form with your information and someone from our office will contact you directly within 1 business day to discuss if you are approved and answer any additional questions you may have. You can always call us if you prefer getting approved over the phone at (844) 367-9376

  • Can anyone apply for the financing program?

    If you currently live in a city or county that has been approved by your local government for the program, then you can apply. If your location isn’t currently approved, you can still submit your information and we will inform you immediately upon your local government starting.

  • What happens if I get approved and decide not to use any of the money at this time?

    Once preapproved for financing in the program, you have anywhere from 60 days to 6 months to choose a contractor in the program, start and finish the work. If you want to wait and do any improvements and upgrades later, then you will just need to reapply.

  • Is eligibility based on a credit score?

    No, eligibility is based on the equity in your home.

Eligible Home Improvements

  • What improvements and upgrades are eligible for financing?

    There are thousands of eligible energy efficient upgrades and improvements available. More specific items can be found by clicking here

  • Can I get financing improvements & upgrades for my condominium (condo) or townhome?

    Condos and townhomes are typically eligible for the financing program, however you may need written authorization from your condominium management or homeowner’s association. This depends on your Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&R’s) or any Deed Restrictions.

  • Who can install the products financed through the program?

    Only those contractors who have previously applied to work under the program rules and requirements and been approved.  All contracts must have the following to participate in the program:

    • Been in business for 2 years or longer
    • Pass a background check
    • Meet financial requirements
    • Provide proof of insurance and a bond
    • Agree to a code of ethics
    • Have a valid license with the Florida State Licensing Board
    • Maintain a database of customer transactions that can be audited
  • Can I install my own products that are approved for financing in the program?

    No, all improvements must be installed by a registered and approved contractor for the program.

  • Can I finance eligible upgrades and renovations that were previously completed?

    No

  • Is the program mandatory?

    No, homes & homeowners who do not participate in the program are not affected at all.

  • Do I have to have an energy audit before applying & getting approved?

    No, an energy audit is not required, but can be done if you prefer.

  • If any roof repair is needed by adding solar, will this be covered in the financing?

    Yes, any solar and roof work are included in the program if you are approved for enough financing to cover the costs.

  • Are solar battery back-up, solar water heating, and EV charging stations eligible for financing?

    Yes

  • Can the financing cover power purchase agreements or solar leases?

    No

  • Can I get financing for my mobile home or manufactured home?

    Yes, both mobile homes and manufactured homes are eligible if they are permanently attached to the real property; own the mobile home and underlying land; and pay real property taxes.

  • Are building permits needed to be obtained?

    Any work that requires a permit from your city or county will need necessary permit(s) and completed inspections. If you have any questions, your contractor(s) can help you.

  • Can a property owned in a company or trust qualify for the program?

    Yes, both a company or trust owned property are eligible for financing under the program as long as property documentation from the company or trust is reviewed and satisfactory.

  • Does the financing affect the buying or selling process?

    It can and you may want to mention energy and water saving benefits as a result of the program. A listing agent or seller should disclose that there is an additional assessment on the property tax bill.

Financing Options

  • Is if free to apply for the program?

    Yes

  • Can I repay the balance before the term ends without a prepayment penalty?

    Yes, you can repay your balance at any time without a prepayment penalty

  • Are there any up-front costs or deposits required?

    No, financing is for 100% of the project costs, with no money down out of your pocket

  • Am I eligible for the financing program?

    If you are the property owner of record and meet the following requirements:
     

    • Mortgage in place for 90 days or longer or no mortgage
    • No active bankruptcies within the last 3 years         
    • Be current on mortgage debt payments     
    • No payments past due more than 60 days in last year
    • Current on property taxes
    • Have 10% or more equity in your property
  • Can the program be used to finance more than one project?

    Yes, you can finance multiple projects that are eligible for the program.

  • Do I have to sign a personal guarantee?

    No, a personal guarantee is not required

  • Do I need a minimum credit score?

    No, financing is based on the equity in your property

  • Do I get any tax benefits?

    Please consult your tax advisor. Typically the interest paid on the financing is tax deductible.

  • Can any tax credits or rebate programs before combined with this financing program?

    Yes, this financing program does not prohibit you from any rebates or tax credits that may be available on local, state, or federal levels.

  • How much can I financing using the program?

    The minimum amount of financing allowed is $5,000 and the maximum amount of financing allowed for the program is $250,000.  The are several factors that will determine what amount you qualify, including, but not limited to:

    • Based on the asset value of your home
    • Annual assessment payment cannot exceed 5% of household income
    • Annual assessment plus all debt secured by property cannot exceed 45% of household income.
    • The assessment plus all debt that is secured by the property cannot exceed 97% of Fair Market Value.

  • Can I choose my own contractor?

    Each contractor has to meet multiple qualifications to be approved to work under the financing program. If you have a contractor that you would like to do your upgrades, please have them contact us for more information to see if we can get them approved.

  • How do I pay for the program financing?

    A special assessment will be added as a new line item on your property tax bill. It will remain on your tax bill for the length of term you choose, up to 25 years. Pay your property tax bill the same way you have always paid it; via your escrow account or when your tax bill arrives.

  • How often do I have to make payments?

    The good news is your first payment won’t be due until next year’s property taxes are due. Either pay your tax bill directly when you receive it or monthly through your escrow account.

  • Can I buy down the interest rate for financing?

    Typically, the answer is yes. If you select this option to reduce or buy down a lower interest rate, it will save you money on your yearly tax amount due and reduce the amount of interest you pay over time.

  • Do I have to pay the “points” out of pocket to get a lower interest rate?

    No, any points paid to lower your interest rate will be rolled into your financing and paid over the length of your selected term.

  • Does this financing require a tax lien?

    Yes, just like your other property tax obligations, you will have a tax lien in effect for the term of your financing. This tax lien will not remain once you have repaid the financing amount.

  • Can I sell or refinance my home with this financing program?

    Yes, remaining payments at the time may transfer to the new owner subject to the buyers lender approval. They buyers lender may require full payoff of your remaining balance. If you are looking to get home improvements to improve the value of your home and sell it immediately, we suggest other financing options besides this program.

  • What financing terms are offered?

    The interest rates are competitive, fixed, and offer flexible terms of 5-25 years based on the useful life of the improvements and renovations you choose.

Please feel free to call us and speak with one of our many experts who are happy to assist you.
Call or email us to find out how you can become a contractor partner to increase your bottom line.

Find Us

36181 East Lake Road, Suite 270
Palm Harbor, Florida 34685
United States.

Phone: 844-FOR-ZERO or 844-367-9376

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