As energy costs rise and eco-friendly living becomes a priority for many homeowners, the idea of adding solar panels or energy efficiency upgrades to your manufactured home is more appealing than ever. Whether you want to lower your utility bills, reduce your carbon footprint, or simply modernize your home, the big question is: Can you finance these upgrades through your manufactured home loan?
The short answer? Sometimes, yes, but the details depend on the type of loan you choose, the upgrades you want, and the lender’s guidelines. Let’s break it down.
How Solar Panels and Energy Upgrades Fit into Manufactured Home Loans
When it comes to manufactured housing, loan programs vary in what they allow you to include in the financing. In general, there are three main scenarios:
- Upgrades Included at the Time of Purchase
If you’re buying a new manufactured home, you may be able to roll the cost of solar panels, upgraded insulation, or energy-efficient windows into the home’s purchase price—if the upgrades are part of the builder’s or dealer’s package. Many lenders are more open to financing these additions when they’re installed before the home is delivered or during the initial purchase process.
- Using an FHA Title I or VA Loan
Some government-backed loan programs, like FHA Title I loans, may allow you to finance certain improvements after purchase, especially if they increase the home’s value or reduce long-term costs. VA loans for eligible veterans may also have allowances for energy efficiency improvements. However, each program has its own requirements, so it’s important to verify exactly what’s covered.
- Refinancing for Energy Upgrades
If your manufactured home is already financed, refinancing might be an option. By refinancing into a new loan with a higher balance, you could use the additional funds to pay for solar panels or other efficiency improvements. This works best if your home has appreciated in value or if you’ve paid down a significant portion of your loan.
Things to Consider Before Financing Solar Panels or Upgrades
- Lender Requirements: Not all lenders will approve financing for solar panels or energy upgrades on manufactured homes, so ask upfront.
- Appraisal Impact: The upgrades may need to add measurable value to your home in the eyes of an appraiser.
- Long-Term Savings: Calculate whether your monthly energy savings will offset the additional loan payment.
- Warranty & Installation: Make sure any upgrades are installed by certified professionals and come with warranties that protect your investment.
Alternatives if Your Loan Won’t Cover It
If your manufactured home loan can’t finance the upgrades, you still have options:
- Personal loans for smaller projects
- Solar company financing directly through the installer
- Energy efficiency grants or rebates from local utilities or state programs
These alternatives may have higher interest rates than home financing, but they can still make the upgrades possible.
Making Your Manufactured Home More Sustainable
Adding solar panels and energy-efficient features can be a smart move for your home, your wallet, and the environment. While not every manufactured home loan will allow you to finance these improvements, there are paths, through purchase packages, refinancing, or specific loan programs, that can make it happen.
If you’re ready to explore your options, ManufacturedHomeLoans.com can connect you with lenders and resources to help you create a greener, more efficient home. From loan guidance to manufactured housing insights, we’re here to help you find the right financing path.
Ready to start your energy upgrade journey? Visit us today and see how you can combine sustainable living with smart financing for your manufactured home.
