Going green—it’s a topic that’s still top of mind (especially with so many making the permanent switch to working from home). Small steps, big impact, right? For taking steps toward a more eco-friendly home, we turned to Alex Laber from 1st National Bank for ideas and options.
Q: Tell us about your special “green” programs.
A: Our mortgage department works with homebuilders who offer “Green Home” new construction—servicing loans for customers who wish to live more carbon neutral. Features like LED high-efficiency lighting, geo-thermal heating and cooling systems, and high-efficiency appliances sometimes come with a higher price tag.
Q: What about different financing options?
A: We provide new construction loans for customers wishing to build their “Dream Green Home,” plus Home Equity Lines of Credit for more efficient home appliances and systems, and refinancing for current loans to save even more money. We also offer USDA Loans for people who want to live conventionally in a more rural area—great for those seeking a more sustainable lifestyle on their own little slice of farm. These loans can also be used to repair or upgrade a homeowner’s current rural home to be more efficient.
Q: Other ways to reduce our carbon footprint?
A: E-statements eliminate the process of having to print and mail a physical document to customers’ homes—saving them $5 a month. We also offer a digital banking suite on desktop, tablet and mobile platforms—a convenient option that saves our customers carbon emissions, time and money by bringing banking to them.
Q: Do you help businesses, too?
A: Of course! For businesses that have taken the initiative to upgrade their facilities to higher-efficiency standards or partnered with organizations such as Ohio PACE, we provide financing options that can be used to upgrade facilities and equipment—lowering energy costs and helping save money.
BankWith1st.com | 10600 Loveland-Madeira Rd | 513.774.3366