APRIL 29, 1998 - Investing in an energy efficient home will also be cost efficient for the many buyers of a Five Star Home, thanks to a new program from the Michigan Department of Consumer & Industry Services (CIS).

Beginning May 1, the CIS Energy Resources Division will offer $1,000 to the first 200 home buyers whose houses meet certain high energy efficiency criteria. Both new and existing homes are eligible.

"This program will encourage more Michigan families to buy energy-efficient homes, saving home owners money, and conserving our natural resources," said Governor John Engler.

The energy efficiency of homes is rated on a scale of 1-5 stars and a Five-Star rating indicates a high energy efficient building. Local raters trained by Energy Division staff will make an on-site visit to collect necessary data to calculate a home energy rating. Special computer software is then used to measure a home's energy performance against the best performance possible for that home.

To receive the $1,000 incentive, house buyers must send the following three items to the CIS Energy Division:

* A "Site Visit" Five Star home Certificate.
* Proof of Purchase, which can be a deed, land contract or mortgage note.
* Completed W-9, which is the IRS Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification form.

For more information about the Five-Star buyer incentives, call the Energy Division at (517) 334-6261

Read more Michigan Department of Consumer & Industry Services press releases.