10/02/2026
💡 Could a $100 smart thermostat potentially save a homebuyer thousands on their mortgage?
With mortgage rates still leaving a little something to be desired, sometimes we have to get creative!
Here's something most may not know: Certain conventional financing programs through Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac may allow eligible buyers to benefit from energy-efficient improvements — and something as simple as installing a smart thermostat could potentially make a difference.
Here's an example: A buyer purchasing a $200,000 home with a 700 credit score and 5% down could potentially save around $2,000 in loan fees and/or adjust the interest rate down (approximately 1/4% based on yesterday's pricing sheets) (credit scores, down payment, loan amount all play into this). The thermostat might cost less than $100, although there are appraisal requirements and an additional inspection to verify the improvement after installation. Even factoring in those costs, the potential savings can be significant.
There are some requirements, including income limits based on the area's median income, an appraisal, and an additional inspection after installation. So it won't work for everyone, but it's absolutely worth checking.
The point? There may be ways to improve the numbers on a home purchase that you haven't even considered.
Have a great Friday!
