Plano's Great Update Rebate

Tips
May 20, 2025•5 min read

Are you a Plano homeowner with a house built before 1990? Your remodeling dreams might qualify for significant financial assistance through the City of Plano's Great Update Rebate program. At Sonshine Services, we've helped numerous Plano homeowners navigate this valuable opportunity to transform their homes while saving thousands of dollars.

What Is The Great Update Rebate?

The Great Update Rebate is a City of Plano initiative designed to encourage homeowners to invest in updating and maintaining older homes. The program offers homeowners a 10% rebate (up to $5,000) on qualifying home improvement projects that cost at least $20,000.

Who qualifies?

  • Homeowners living in single-family homes built in or before 1990

  • Properties valued at $350,000 or less (according to Collin County Central Appraisal District)

  • The home must be your primary residence

  • You must be current on property taxes and have no city liens

Eligible Projects That Transform Your Home

The Great Update Rebate program focuses on significant improvements that enhance your home's value, efficiency, and livability. At Sonshine Services, we specialize in precisely these types of transformative projects:

Energy Efficiency Upgrades

  • Window and door replacement

  • HVAC system updates

  • Insulation improvements

  • Energy-efficient appliance installation

Kitchen Renovations

  • Complete kitchen remodels

  • Cabinet replacement or refacing

  • Countertop upgrades

  • Modern fixture installation

Bathroom Transformations

  • Full bathroom renovations

  • Tub-to-shower conversions

  • Vanity and fixture upgrades

  • Accessibility improvements

Exterior Enhancements

  • Siding replacement

  • Roof upgrades

  • Front entryway improvements

  • Garage door replacements

Structural Improvements

  • Foundation repairs

  • Electrical system updates

  • Plumbing system overhauls

  • Room additions or conversions

Many Plano homeowners combine several smaller projects to reach the $20,000 minimum threshold, creating a comprehensive home improvement plan that maximizes their rebate potential.

The Application Process: Let Sonshine Services Guide You

Navigating government programs can feel overwhelming, but the team at Sonshine Services has extensive experience helping Plano homeowners succeed with their Great Update Rebate applications. Here's what to expect:

1. Initial Consultation and Pre-Planning

Before even applying, we'll help you:

  • Assess your home's eligibility

  • Identify high-impact projects that qualify

  • Develop a preliminary budget and scope

  • Create a strategic approach to maximize your rebate potential

2. The Application Timeline

The Great Update Rebate follows a specific process:

  • Pre-application meeting with program staff (required)

  • Application submission with documentation including:

    • Proof of ownership and occupancy

    • Property tax statement

    • Project scope and contractor estimates

    • Photos of areas to be improved

  • Competitive selection (applications are evaluated based on impact)

  • Rebate agreement execution

  • Project completion within the required timeframe

  • Final inspection and rebate issuance

3. Sonshine Services' Support Throughout

Our team provides comprehensive assistance at every stage:

  • Preparing professional documentation for your application

  • Creating detailed project scopes that align with program requirements

  • Providing accurate cost estimates

  • Completing work to code with proper permits

  • Preparing for final inspection

  • Assembling rebate submission materials

Qualifying Project Types

The Great Update Rebate program is designed to support significant home improvements that enhance property values and quality of life. According to the City of Plano's guidelines, qualifying projects typically fall into these categories:

  • Kitchen and bathroom renovations that modernize and improve functionality

  • Energy efficiency improvements including window replacements and HVAC upgrades

  • Exterior enhancements that improve curb appeal and structural integrity

  • System updates such as electrical, plumbing, and HVAC modernization

  • Structural improvements that address foundation or other essential elements

Projects must meet the minimum $20,000 investment threshold and comply with all applicable building codes and permit requirements to qualify for the rebate.

Maximizing Your Rebate: Strategic Planning Tips

To make the most of the Great Update Rebate program, consider these Sonshine Services recommendations:

Bundle Projects Strategically

Combining several smaller projects can help you reach the $20,000 minimum threshold while addressing multiple home improvement needs.

Focus on High-ROI Improvements

Even with the rebate, you want to invest in improvements that deliver strong returns. Kitchen and bathroom remodels typically provide the best combination of personal enjoyment and increased home value.

Don't Overlook Essential Systems

While aesthetic improvements are appealing, updating electrical, plumbing, or HVAC systems can qualify for the rebate while preventing costly emergency repairs down the road.

Consider Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient upgrades not only qualify for the rebate but continue to save you money through reduced utility bills for years to come.

Plan for the Long Term

The most successful rebate projects improve your quality of life now while making your home more marketable in the future.

Why Choose Sonshine Services for Your Rebate Project

Our team brings specialized expertise to Great Update Rebate projects:

  • Program Experience: We've successfully guided multiple Plano homeowners through the application and completion process.

  • Quality Craftsmanship: Our attention to detail ensures your project will pass final inspection with flying colors.

  • Comprehensive Project Management: From initial concept to final inspection, we handle every aspect of your remodel.

  • Budget Optimization: We help structure projects to maximize both your rebate potential and your overall investment return.

  • Communication Excellence: Throughout your project, you'll receive clear updates on progress and next steps.

Next Steps: Start Your Rebate Journey

Ready to explore how the Great Update Rebate could help transform your Plano home? Here's how to begin:

  1. Schedule a consultation with our team to assess your home's eligibility and discuss your remodeling goals.

  2. Review potential projects and develop a strategic approach that maximizes your rebate potential.

  3. Begin the application process with our support in preparing documentation and project scopes.

Don't miss this opportunity to receive up to $5,000 back on your home improvement investment. Contact Sonshine Services today to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help make your remodeling dreams more affordable through Plano's Great Update Rebate program.

Interested in learning more about the program? Reach out to our team today or check out the details of the program here.

Sonshine Services specializes in residential and commercial construction, remodeling, and energy-efficient upgrades throughout the DFW metroplex. Our knowledge of local incentive programs helps clients maximize their remodeling investments.


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