NFC Energy Advantage Program
Program Overview (Realtor‑Friendly Summary)
The Energy Advantage Program helps homeowners reduce energy costs, improve comfort, and make energy‑smart upgrades through a $10,000 deferred loan that can be paired with other NFC financing. It’s designed for homes in NFC Lending Areas and is ideal for buyers considering older homes, homes with draftiness or leakiness, or homes needing efficiency improvements.
This program is especially helpful for first‑time homebuyers, clients purchasing older homes, and buyers who want to improve comfort without taking on additional monthly payments.
Who Qualifies?
Eligible Locations
Polk County
- Des Moines
- Select neighborhoods in Urbandale and West Des Moines
Linn County
- Cedar Rapids only
Boundaries match those approved by the City of Cedar Rapids. Realtors should confirm eligibility using the Home Locator Tool.
Buyer Types Who Benefit Most
- First‑time homebuyers
- Buyers of older homes
- Buyers concerned about utility costs
- Buyers planning comfort‑focused improvements
- Buyers who want to pair renovation financing with energy upgrades
What Improvements Qualify?
Eligible Improvements Include:
- Insulation
- Air sealing
- Heat pumps
- HVAC upgrades
- Window replacements
- Roofing
- Siding
- Electrical or plumbing updates
- Energy‑efficiency improvements identified during inspection
These improvements can be paired with NFC’s renovation loans for larger projects.
How Realtors Can Use This Program to Support Clients
During Home Search
During Buyer Conversations
During Offer & Inspection
How to Check Eligibility (Realtor Workflow)
Realtors can quickly determine whether a property qualifies:
- Enter the property address into the Home Locator Tool
- Confirm the home is within an NFC Lending Area
- Review which programs apply (Energy Advantage, renovation loans, forgivable options)
- Connect the buyer with NFC for next steps
This workflow helps realtors guide clients with clarity and confidence.