We’ll Help You Upgrade – Every Step of the Way

SEF helps Utah families make their homes more comfortable, efficient, and self-reliant with clear, affordable financing and strong consumer protections.

How It Works

Getting started with SEF is simple. Here's how we help you upgrade your home.

1

Apply - With or Without A Contractor

Tell us a bit about your home and the upgrades you're interested in.

2

Get Matched with Financing

We'll help you find clear, affordable financing that fits your project, with no minimum credit score.

3

Stay Protected

We review quotes to ensure they meet industry standards, and release payment only when work is done right.

4

Upgrade with Confidence

Move forward knowing you have a trusted community lender supporting you.

What You Can Finance

We finance a wide range of home improvements that make your home more comfortable, efficient, and accessible.

Solar & Home Energy

Solar panels and solar water heaters

Solar attic ventilation

Home solar systems paired with battery storage

Heating, Cooling & Efficiency

High-efficiency HVAC systems

Weatherization and insulation upgrades

LED lighting and other energy-saving improvements

Windows, Doors & Roofing

Energy-efficient or impact-resistant windows and doors

Hurricane shutters and skylights

Roof repair or replacement (metal, tile, or flat)

Water, Sewer & Essential Systems

Plumbing improvements

Potable water hookups

Septic-to-sewer conversions

Accessibility & Safety

Wheelchair ramps and other mobility upgrades

Walk-in showers and accessible interior remodeling

Home updates that improve comfort, safety, or independent living

Weatherization & Resilience

Projects that help protect your home from storms, heat, or extreme weather

SEF focuses on practical, community-rooted solutions to make Utah a healthier, more affordable home.

Eligibility Overview

SEF currently serves homeowners across Utah, including rural and underserved communities.
Financing is designed for primary residences and family homes.

Homeownership

You must own the home where the upgrades will be installed. Close family members—such as parents, children, siblings, grandparents, or grandchildren—may also apply together with the homeowner if they are helping manage or pay for the improvements.

Property Location

The property must be a residence located in Utah.

Mortgage Holders

Everyone listed on the mortgage for the home needs to be included in the application.

Property Title

All individuals on the property title must participate as well.

Payment Ability

Applicants must demonstrate the ability to make payments, such as through employment income, Social Security, disability benefits, or similar sources.

Property Taxes

Property taxes must be up to date.

Credit Standing

Mortgage, auto loans, and credit card accounts must be in good standing; no minimum credit score requirement; privately held mortgages may require documentation.

Bankruptcy Status

Applicants must not have an active bankruptcy or a bankruptcy discharged within the last 12 months.

Additional Requirements

A co-signer or a small cash reserve (for example, around 3% of the project cost) may be requested.

If you're not sure whether your project qualifies, the easiest way to find out is to get in touch with our team.

Contact Our Team

Frequently Asked Questions

A few short answers to common concerns

What types of credit do you accept?

Our program is not based on credit score, but is based on your income and ability to make loan payments. Co-borrowers and / or cash guarantees may be required for some borrowers.

Which contractors are already approved?

Contact us at homes@sustainenergyfinance.org for a list of approved contractors.

Are there income limits?

There are no income limits to qualify for our financing. The program can serve any Utahn, and is specifically designed to serve low- and moderate income families who often don’t qualify for traditional financing.

Do I need to use specific contractors?

We require all projects to use contractors vetted through our program - if you have a contractor you want to use that isn’t vetted, they can become vetted through a straightforward, fast process to become eligible to complete your project.

Ready to get started?

See if your project qualifies

Still have questions? Contact us: homes@sustainenergyfinance.org

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