During my vacation, I received a message from my energy provider: an increase from € 330 to € 730 per month. I almost fell out of my hammock!
Time for action!
Quick win’s
So much additional cost per month can be quite confronting. But, I see an advantage: It stimulates me to think more critically about how we can save on energy and gas. This is, of course, what we all should strive for. What we have already been doing for a long time at home: Shorter showers and wearing warmer clothes in the wintertime instead of increasing heating, there is also:
- Hanging our clothes on the washing line more often
We came to the conclusion that we (a family of five) use our dryer more often than necessary. Crazy! Especially when it is 30 degrees outside. - We bought a new dishwasher
Our 10 year old dishwasher used much more water and energy than modern machines. This was something that never crossed our minds. - We deactivate our bathroom floor heating in the summer
I don’t know why I did not think of this before… Of course, these are all drops in the ocean. Still, every little bit matters. Do you want to save a lot? Then making your home more sustainable is a viable option.
Making your home more sustainable without savings?
Then a subsidy from the government, or an increase on your mortgage, could be your solution.
Subsidy options
The possibilities of subsidies differ per municipality or province. It is good to realize that you normally advance the amount required first. Then you can request it back.
Interesting websites:
Mortgage options
You can also make your home more sustainable with the money that you borrow. Often with favourable arrangements. You have to use the money for sustainable measures. Think of solar panels, insulation, or better heat installation. Example:
- You may increase, or take out, your mortgage to a maximum of 106% of the value of your home (normally this is 100%).
- You may, for example, borrow € 9,000 extra (on top of your maximum mortgage). For this loan, your gross family income has to be at least € 33,000 annually. How much can you exactly borrow? That is dependent on your personal situation.
It is also good to know that some lenders provide a discount on their interest for houses with a favourable energy label.
Where to begin?
A lot has been written about energy savings and associated loans. I can imagine that you can no longer “see the forest for the trees”. That is why we are there for you. We are the experts in the field of mortgages and are happy to give you clarity. Do you have any questions? Feel free to contact us.
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