Free DC Energy Audit
Buyers care about the energy efficiency of their future home. Sellers can increase the marketability of their property by getting a free home energy audit from the District Department of the Environment. The audit includes a rating from “Extremely Poor” to “Extremely Efficient” and includes tips for what to do increase your rating. And did we mention that it’s free? To request a free energy audit for your property, click here.
RiverSmart Homes
The RiverSmart Homes program offers incentives to homeowners interested in reducing stormwater pollution from their properties and making their home more attractive for buyers who care about the cleanliness of our rivers. Homeowners can receive up to $1,200 for adopting one of the following landscaping enhancements: Shade Tree Planting, Rain Barrels, Pervious Pavers, Rain Gardens, BayScaping. Click here to request an analysis of what you can do to your property to help prevent polluting stormwaters. Be forewarned that this is a popular program and homeowners may wait a few months before receiving a consultation.
Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives (HAFA)
If you can't afford your mortgage payment and it's time for you to transition to more affordable housing, the Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives (HAFA) program is designed for you. HAFA provides two options for transitioning out of your mortgage: a short sale or a Deed-in-Lieu (DIL) of foreclosure. In a short sale, the mortgage company lets you sell your house for an amount that falls "short" of the amount you still owe. In a DIL, the mortgage company lets you give the title back, transferring ownership back to them. You can find out whether you qualify for HAFA by contacting your lender. We also recommend that you get in touch with a housing counselor who can assist you if you’re having trouble making your payments. For more information, check out Making Home Affordable. We also strongly recommend that you call the HOPE hotline (888-995-4673) for referrals to housing counselors and more helpful information.
202-250-0021