Home Buyers Are Seeking Green Features

Saving energy, keeping homes more comfortable and doing a good thing for the environment are all benefits of adding green features to your home.  In fact, adding green features to existing homes, or building them in from the beginning is becoming more important to most homebuyers today.

Recently, the National Association of Homebuilders surveyed buyers about several types of green features and which were most important to them. Add them to your home and you’ll benefit by making your home more comfortable you’ll also add value to your home.

Not surprisingly, the some of the most historically popular green features are energy efficient appliances, windows and insulation. Recent droughts have moved water saving features higher up the list.

The biggest thing buyers want in new homes is for the whole house to have a green certification, for instance an Energy Star® rating for the whole home. That includes appliances, insulation, windows. Buyers are willing to pay more for homes that will save them on utility bills, up to a point. Interestingly, gas-filled windows were the least popular feature of those surveyed.

If you’re planning to update old appliances, it’s wise to consider tankless water heaters and a high SEER air conditioning system. For other easy upgrades, look for water saving shower heads, toilets, and dishwashers. Adding a rain/freeze sensor to your irrigation system can also help.

Other green features are probably better suited for homeowners who are planning to stay in their homes for some time. Solar panels, for instance, have come down drastically in price, but are better suited for a long term investment than for someone who is planning to move soon.

If you are considering or in the process of adding green features to your home, a great way to get started is to speak to a MetroTex Realtor.  You can also look for MetroTex Realtors who have the GREEN certification, indicating they are knowledgeable about green construction and retrofits. Additionally, Realtors can provide valuable counsel, discuss ROI, and provide you with referrals for licensed contractors. Visit dfwrealestate.com for more information on working with a MetroTex Realtor.