Perhaps eco-friendly real estate deserves your attention because this type of home uses less energy, is built with sustainable materials, and presents a healthy environment for its occupants. Moreover, the prices of green houses in most markets are so affordable. A few years ago, the construction of an ecological house required a premium of 11 to 25%. But those aren’t today’s scenarios, as homeowners can only expect to pay three to five percent. Here are some things to look out for when buying a green home.
o The first thing to consider when buying a green home is to work with a buyer’s agent who specializes in green homes or is designated as an eco-broker. Working with the right person in that particular real estate market will provide you with the right details and help you choose a home that has green features.
o To make sure you are looking for an eco-friendly home, look for homes that have a “GREEN” rating. Since this rating system is newly introduced, it may not be easy to find homes that have ratings. Even if you can’t find a house with green ratings, it’s important that you know what a house with green features looks like.
o Functional windows are good. This will help with natural cooling as it allows good air circulation in the house. Low E-rated windows block harmful UV rays from entering your home, which can also help keep your home cooler.
o Ceiling fans are a plus for cooling the house. Also pay attention to insulation as it takes care of both the heating and cooling of a home.
o The attic should have good air circulation that allows hot air to escape.
o Driveway and roofing materials should be light in color as dark colors absorb sunlight and increase solar heat gain.
o Check out the landscaped areas of a home as this helps reduce solar heat gain. Planting flower beds close to the house can reduce heat buildup. Check if there is a drip irrigation system as it is an excellent water saving system. If the location of the house does not receive much rain, it would be unwise to have a large lawn that will require a lot of water.
o If there are appliances left in the house, check to see if they are Energy Star rated. Energy Star qualified appliances use less energy and will help you lower your bills.
o Check if the windows are located on the north and south sides of the house. Properly positioned windows will prevent your home from being heated by the sun in the morning and evening.
o Green houses use winds for natural cooling, so pay attention to the orientation of the house. See if you can take advantage of the prevailing winds when you open the windows. The windows positioned on the opposite walls provide good cross ventilation.
o Other good things you should look for for green homes are solar panels, wind turbines or any other renewable energy source.
Remember that you can update some of these elements easily and change yourself. First and foremost, consider the overall construction of the house.