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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Financing earth-sheltered housing: a report on a project to facilitate the loan process

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:5327951

The problem of financing innovative energy-conserving dwellings is exacerbated by two key factors. The first is that borrowers (potential homebuilders) do not understand the mortgage process and needs of the lenders and are therefore unable to communicate effectively the various issues of interest to lenders. The second is that lenders do not have a familiarity with the concept and are therefore unable to evaluate the potential marketability should the borrower default. This situation is compounded by the fact that there are, in general, few or no earth-sheltered comparables on which to verify the market value. This borrower's guide is presented to explore the situation and with the help of financial agencies, to develop means to mitigate the problems. Information is presented on options available for short- and long-term financing; lenders' obligations and concerns; criteria lenders' use in deciding eligibility for a loan; shopping for a lending institution; and making the presentation to a lending institution for an earth-covered building. (MCW)

Research Organization:
Oak Ridge National Lab., TN (USA); TLH Associates, Inc., St. Paul, MN (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
W-7405-ENG-26
OSTI ID:
5327951
Report Number(s):
ORNL/Sub-80-70513/1; ON: DE82005168
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English