For Ottawa homeowners, the initial cost of home improvements, like a window and door replacement, can be a challenge. Those same homeowners also know that upgrading their homes to be more energy-efficient is a smart investment that can reduce utility costs, increase comfort, improve their family’s security and even boost property value.
The Better Homes Ottawa Loan Program (BHOLP) is a city-run financing initiative delivered by EnviroCentre that offers low-, or zero-interest loans to make energy-efficient home improvements, like window and door replacement, more affordable, helping residents of Ottawa make impactful changes with accessible financial support.
What is the Better Homes Ottawa Loan Program (BHOLP)?
Since 2021, the Better Homes Ottawa Loan Program has helped Ottawa homeowners finance energy-efficient upgrades as part of the city’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing environmental sustainability in the city. Through the BHOLP, homeowners can access low- or zero-interest loans, repaid over time via their property tax bill. Funds from BHOLP can be used for energy-efficient upgrades, like high-performance windows and doors from EcoTech Windows & Doors, which reduce heat loss and improve insulation. The program’s goal is to reduce the financial barriers that Ottawa homeowners face in undertaking sustainable home improvement projects.
How does BHOLP work?
BHOLP offers low-interest loans that homeowners repay over a period of up to 20 years, with a unique repayment model attached to the property, not the individual. If you sell your home before full repayment, the loan transfers to the new owner.
Here’s how the process typically works:
- Energy Assessment: Complete an energy assessment with a qualified Energy Advisor who will provide you with a list of the most effective upgrades for your home. This assessment will show you how much energy you can save by installing new windows, doors or other energy-efficient improvements.
- Apply: Visit the Better Homes Ottawa website and complete the application form.
- Notice to Proceed: If the application meets all program requirements, the homeowner is issued a Notice to Proceed. This document outlines the loan value and other terms.
- Choose EcoTech: With your assessment and Notice to Proceed in hand, contact your EcoTech Windows & Doors product specialist to get your free estimate.
- Funding Request: At this stage, Ottawa homeowners can request up to 50% of the funds upfront to cover deposits or down payments.
- Retrofit: Complete your energy-efficiency home improvements.
- Post-retrofit Energy Assessment & Project Completion: Completing an energy assessment following your upgrades will help illustrate how much of an improvement you’ve made and symbolize the completion of your project.
- Loan Disbursement: After your project is completed, the City of Ottawa will disburse the funds directly to you or your contractor.
- Repayment: Repayments are added to your property tax bill, so you can pay off the loan gradually with your regular property taxes. This way, you get the energy savings upfront while paying off the loan over time.
Why Choose BHOLP for Window and Door Upgrades?
If your home’s windows or doors are outdated, they could be leaking air, causing drafts, and significantly affecting your energy bills. BHOLP financing offers a way to address these issues without paying the entire cost upfront. Here are some of the key benefits of using BHOLP for energy efficient window and door upgrades:
- Energy Savings: Modern windows and doors can prevent energy transfer, reducing the amount of energy needed to heat or cool your home. This leads to lower monthly utility bills.
- Enhanced Comfort: In addition to reducing energy transfer, a modern window installation eliminates drafts or air leaks leading to improved control over your indoor temperature year-round.
- Environmental Impact: By using less energy, you reduce your home’s carbon footprint and support Ottawa’s goals of reducing residential greenhouse gas emissions.
- Increased Property Value: Energy-efficient home improvements often boost property values.
Types of Eligible Window and Door Upgrades
When considering upgrades for your home, it’s essential to know what kinds of windows and doors qualify for BHOLP financing. Here’s what to look for:
- Energy Efficient Windows: Windows with double or triple glazing, low-E coatings, and argon gas fills are eligible under BHOLP. These features help reduce heat transfer, block UV rays and improve insulation.
- High-Performance Doors: Upgrading to insulated doors, or doors with high R-values (resistance to heat transfer) can make a huge difference. Look for steel or fiberglass doors with insulation cores, which are known for their durability and efficiency.
- Weather-stripping and Insulation: In addition to full replacements, smaller upgrades like weather-stripping or door sweeps can further reduce drafts and heat loss. These options are often more affordable and can be combined.
How EcoTech Windows & Doors Supports BHOLP-Eligible Upgrades
At EcoTech Windows & Doors, we’re committed to helping homeowners improve their homes with high-quality, energy-efficient products. Our team is well-versed in the requirements of the BHOLP program and can assist you in selecting products that meet the City of Ottawa’s energy standards.
EcoTech offers a range of windows and doors designed to minimize energy loss and maximize comfort. Our knowledgeable staff can guide you through the entire process, from choosing the right products to ensuring the installation is done correctly and efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions About BHOLP
- Who Qualifies for BHOLP?
To qualify, you must own residential property in Toronto and be in good standing on your property taxes. Specific eligibility criteria may vary, so it’s best to check with the Better Homes Ottawa website for the latest details.
- Can I combine BHOLP with other incentives?
Yes, BHOLP can be combined with other rebates, incentives and financing, such as the Canada Greener Homes Grant. This can further reduce the cost of your home improvements.
- What are the interest rates for BHOLP?
BHOLP offers competitive, fixed interest rates, typically lower than standard home renovation loans. Rates vary depending on the length of the loan, so check the Better Homes Ottawa website for current rates.
- Can I pay off my BHOLP loan early?
Yes, homeowners can make additional payments, or pay off the loan entirely, early without penalty, which can save on interest costs.
- What happens if I sell my house?
If you sell your home, the BHOLP loan can be transferred to the new owner. This feature makes it easier to sell your home without worrying about paying off the loan before closing.
How to Apply for BHOLP
Getting started with BHOLP is simple. Visit the Better Homes Ottawa website where you’ll find detailed application instructions, and consider consulting an EcoTech Windows & Doors product specialist to identify the best window and door improvements for your home. After an energy assessment highlights the upgrades with the most impact, you can move forward with cost estimates, finalizing your loan and launching your home improvement project – confident in your financial support in building a more energy-efficient home.
Conclusion
The Better Homes Ottawa Loan Program (BHOLP) is a great way for homeowners to make energy-saving upgrades like high-performance windows and doors, cutting energy costs while enhancing their home comfort and security.
At EcoTech Windows & Doors, we’re here to guide you through the entire process, from product selection to installation. Reach out to learn more about how we can support you in using BHOLP to make your home – and Ottawa – a more sustainable place.
Call us today at (888) 880–6827 or fill out our contact form and we will call you to schedule a visit.
Quality & Comfort You Can Trust & Afford! You will see the difference right away – find more information at ecotechwindows.ca.
