Going Green When Buying a Home Can Save You Green

Green homes are becoming more and more inquisitive to the buyer. Requests from home buyers inquiring about "green" homes have escalated tremendously over the past 5 years. With the recent passing by the government for an eco-friendly environment, more and more buyers and sellers are being more conscientious with regards to the environment.

Buying a green home or converting a home to green has always been somewhat costly. However, several builders, utility companies and legislation are more aggressive in offering tax incentives to the buyer and seller. This can be especially enticing to the buyer. Here are some energy-efficient ideas to look for in a home or things you can do once you move into a home.

Although it is not absolute that a green home costs more than a normal one, the energy-efficient savings can be considerable especially over time. Many builders are building with "tinted" dual-pane windows, sealing homes better on exterior walls and using more insulation in the areas exposed to the heat and cold.

Heating your entire domain with solar panels could cost a bundle but you can slowly increase the energy-efficiency by using solar panels for your water heater or pool for starters. Installing an insulated jacket around your water heater is another great idea. Check for energy-efficient appliances as well. This alone will considerably save you money in the long run.

Some other things to look for when buying a green home or things you can do upfront that are less costly are insulation, caulking or weather stripping around doors and windows. Replace light bulbs with energy-efficient CFL or florescent bulbs. Low flow technology shower heads and faucets are another huge plus for lowering water, heating and air conditioning costs.

Surrounding your residence with green helps create a green residence. Look for green vegetation around the home. Trees that block the elements around windows are "greentastic". Planting trees or shrubs is also a low cost fix. This blocks the sun and wind from direct exposure to your home. This alone can save energy costs up to 25%. When previewing homes plants and flowers grown inside the home can be an emotional plus for any buyer.

After buying a home, when it comes time to sell the home, it could very well be more marketable when promoted as a "green" home. Remember, you can easily convert or enhance any home to be eco-friendly home so let's all do our part to contribute to an eco-friendly environment.

For more information on "Green Homes" in the Phoenix Real Estate or Tucson Real Estate markets, please visit Real Estate Homes, LLC where you can search for all current homes for sale in the current market.

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