Real Estate Information Center

Modern technology has certainly served us well in our homes. Today we have natural gas lines, electricity, air conditioning, microwaves, hot water, hot running water, refrigeration, and all the modern amenities. But we also use a lot of energy. Now engineers are working on high tech appliances that are ultra-super efficient. It is truly amazing the quality of life we can live for such low costs.

Still, I’ve always thought that the ancient cultures who dug tunnels underground and allowed wind blowing into one end of the tunnel with outlets into the living area for air-cooling were wise, and that was a form of air-conditioning and it didn’t take any energy once the tunnels for ventilation were created. No it wasn’t perfect, but it worked. Even the American Indians built Kivas to stay cool in the hot summers and many of them had devised various rudimentary forms of air cooling vent systems.

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5 Cheap and 5 Not so Cheap Ways to Green a Client’s Home for Sale:

The Not So Cheap:

5) Install new energy efficient appliances. A typical home’s electricity bill is $100 per month. The EPA estimates that approximately 18% of a home’s energy usage comes from appliances. Installing new energy efficient appliances use 25% less energy then a 10 year old appliance. In more real terms that means a home can save at least $5 a month from installing new energy efficient appliances. For Realtors, you won’t be able to sell your clients on replacing appliances based solely on monthly energy savings, but it can certainly be part of your sales strategy…..in addition to adding to the aesthetic value of the home.

4) If installing new hardwood floors, opt for Bamboo. Why do you ask…..simply put Bamboo grows to its full size in about 4 years while other woods used for flooring take approximately 75 years.

3) Insulate your home again(especially good for homes built before 1960)….although an initial cost outlay it can save you 20% on your monthly gas/electric bills. Check to see if your home has attic insulation as most do not-this is a great place to start!

Continue reading ‘5 Inexpensive Ways to Green Your Home – 5 Expensive Ones As Well!’ »

Looking to buy or rent a green home? These days, lots of green homes are going on the market as sellers and landlords recognise they’re in demand. But how is one to know which homes are truly green?

Here’s a checklist of features to look out for and questions to ask to determine the green quality of your next home.

Eco Home Tip 1 – Location Location Location – pick a location that’s convenient and easy to get to. Close to shops, amenities and public transport will reduce the amount of emissions that come from getting around. Inquire about the council’s recycling program.

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When you hear the suggestion to buy a “green” home, bear in mind it doesn’t mean you should buy a house that is physically painted green. Living green these days refers to being more mindful of the environment and working to lessen your carbon footprint. If you have the opportunity to move into a new home, why not consider making a fresh start by doing everything you can to create an environmentally-friendly place to live? You’ll find it’s not expensive to do, and it can help reduce clutter and increase homeowner satisfaction when you discover how much money you can save.

Searching for a Green Home

As real estate agencies become more knowledgeable on green living, you may find it easy to spot the most important elements needed to make an environmentally-friendly house. As you tour potential residences with a Realtor, look for the more obvious signs:

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