When you’re on the hunt for a new home, you might be thinking about how much space your family needs and which neighborhood has the best schools, shopping, and restaurants. But it’s also a good idea to consider energy efficiency in your home search.
Many homeowners are prioritizing energy efficiency to help reduce their carbon footprint and save on monthly expenses. Now, you can make one of the largest purchases of your life in an environmentally responsible way, along with efforts like ESG investing.
Below, we’ll discuss a few ways energy efficiency should be a priority in your home search.
Lower utility costs
Depending on where you live, heating and cooling your home may cost you a small fortune every year. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), homeowners may save around 15% on heating and cooling costs (or 11% on total energy costs) by insulating their attics, basements, floors, and crawl spaces, and air sealing the home.1 Solar panels may also help reduce your utility bills and the savings could pay for the panels within a few years.
Higher resale value
Energy-efficient homes can sell for anywhere between 2% to 8% more than those without energy-efficient upgrades.2 Some buyers are willing to pay more when they know they can enjoy lower utility bills for years to come.
A study by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory revealed that solar panels increased the value of a home by roughly $15,000 on average.3 Buying a home is one of the most significant investments you may make, and having energy-efficient upgrades could help improve your odds of getting a better price when you’re ready to sell.
Comfortable and healthy living space
Energy-efficient homes are designed to maintain more consistent temperatures, better air quality, and reduce drafts, which leads to more comfort year-round. A properly insulated home can help protect you from freezing winters by keeping it warmer for longer. It can also stay as cool as possible during the warmer months. Enhanced ventilation and air filtration systems contribute to better air quality that reduces allergens and pollutants inside the home. 4 This combination of features helps you enjoy a more comfortable, healthier living space while reducing your energy consumption.
Reduced maintenance
Energy-efficient homes are built with high-quality, durable materials that not only enhance energy performance but also reduce the need for frequent maintenance. Features like energy-efficient windows, advanced insulation, and long-lasting roofing materials are designed to withstand wear and tear, which leads to fewer repairs over time.
You can spend less on upkeep and feel good knowing your home could remain in good condition well into the future.
While you hunt for a new home, consider adding energy efficiency to your checklist. An environmentally friendly home can contribute to lowering greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants. But more than that, it can make you feel good about doing your part to help the planet and your pockets.
Sources:
3https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/benefits-residential-solar-electricity
4 https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/improving-indoor-air-quality
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