Multifamily green financing programs boomed in 2016, and are likely to continue to grow in 2017, according to the president of Partner Energy.
HUD, Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac updated existing programs and/or introduced new programs with more attractive features during 2016. The result: Over $3.2 billion in green loans were funded by Freddie and Fannie—far more than in previous years.
Some of the programs allow borrowers to take credit for already being green or for committing to be green such as pursuing a green certification or reducing energy and/or water consumption. Specific measures are identified through an energy audit that provides a guide to achieve goals in a cost-effective manner.
Several programs offer 10-40 basis point reduction in lending rates in return for meeting sustainability targets. These programs are expected to accelerate in 2017.
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