How many times have you heard the phrase, “location, location, location”? Most likely, it’s something you’re well acquainted with, especially in the real estate world. Location and price are two very important factors in determining desirability of a house, but recently sustainability and “green” housing options have also influenced desirability. Many realtors and real estate professionals are starting to hear from clients about their interest in green or sustainable housing.
Green construction is gaining momentum. Even real estate empires are turning towards sustainable technology; think Durst Organisation’s Bank of America Tower in New York City. Even the Empire State Building has been refurbished to utilize green construction and sustainable technology. The idea behind sustainable technology and green construction works to promote an understanding of the future of our earth. “If there are going to be 9 billion people on the planet in 2050, you’ve got to feed them, house them, find them work and they’re going to need more energy,” says former JP Morgan managing director Doug Lawrence.
Not only can you take part in saving the environment, but you can also reduce your carbon footprint. Sustainable technology is a great way to minimize your carbon footprint, your impact on the environment, and even change your finances by changing your utility payments.
Sustainable Technology
The number of homes being built in the United States with environmentally friendly features is only increasing. From 2006 to 2010, the percentage of these homes increased from 2% to 16%. That’s a big change for only a few years!
In 2013, nearly 400,000 households had rooftop solar panels according to an assessment done by the Union of Concerned Scientists. Hopefully, that number will grow past 900,000 households by 2020. Combine those numbers with homes that are using environmentally healthy products or appliances like green label flooring, energy efficient appliances, and alternative energies… and you’ve got millions of homes “going green” throughout the country.
Environmentally sustainable housing options are increasingly common, even if a house isn’t entirely “green”. There are so many ways builders and developers can add in sustainable features to the homes they’re creating. To get a better understanding of those housing features might look like, here are some “green” or sustainable housing options:
- Solar panels
- Natural lighting
- Water conservation
- Energy star appliances
- Renewable energy
- Rain water collection
- Recycled materials
- Use of local materials
Is Energy Efficiency or Sustainable Technology for You?
If you are interested in energy efficiency and green living, you have no doubt contemplated solar energy for your home. Indeed, solar energy is the cleanest and most abundant renewable energy source available. A solar power system consisting of solar panels is the go-to solution for green living enthusiasts. For many, however, the cost of solar panels has been an issue. Solar Power Authority is a fantastic resource to use in order to determine whether you can afford solar panels. Check them out here, and get a free quote on solar panel implementation. Not only will you find out local costs of solar panels, but you’ll also be able to find industry leaders throughout the country.
Using the Real Estate Experts advanced search function, you can discover what homes near you are outfitted with your preferred green building features. Optional features include:
- Active Solar Design
- Drought Resist Landscaping
- Electric Car Charging Station
- Energy Star Appliances
- Exhaust Garage Fan
- Fresh Air Ventilation
- Geo-thermal HVAC System
- High Efficient Toilets
- Insulated Basement Walls
- LED Lighting
- Solar Hot Water
- Locally Sourced Materials
- Low Voc Paints/Seals/Varnish
- Passive Solar Design
- Programmable Thermostats
- Radiant Barrier Roof Deck
- Rainwater Collection
- Sealed Attic
- Sealed Combustion FP
- Solar Passive Heating
- On Demand Hot Water Circ
- Solar Power Photovoltaics
Real Estate Experts
Are you interested in finding a home with green or sustainable features? Environmentally friendly homes don’t have to be as expensive as you think. At Real Estate Experts, we’re current on green living, energy efficient homes, and even sustainable options. We’re excited to help you find your dream house, and outfit it with whatever sustainable options that work for you. If you’re looking to build a home, we’re happy to help connect you with builders in our network who feature energy efficiency, or green materials.
Unsure of what updates to make before selling your home? Real Estate Experts are here to help. Visit us online. Call us today at 919-813-6449 or e-mail us at [email protected] for additional information.