With a more widespread focus on environmental consciousness, energy efficient homes are in high demand. Eco-friendly luxury homes are often priced at a premium, offering potential buyers lower utility expenses and reduced maintenance costs. Additionally, a green home also promises an improved quality of life for homeowners in the way of in-home comforts and many health benefits. With a few simple and effective energy efficient changes to the average American home, it's easy to enjoy maximum performance and comfort while looking forward to the future, when it's time to sell.
Green Homes On the Market
Implementing a few simple energy efficient upgrades to the home can add plenty of value with little effort. In fact, recent studies show that green label homes often sell at an average premium of 9 percent. With results like that, it only makes sense for homeowners to explore some of the many different green upgrades that are available today.
Top 5 Energy Efficient Upgrades for Homeowners
Improved Lighting
Looking for a simple and affordable energy efficient upgrade option? Research shows that when homeowners replace old, incandescent light bulbs with eco-friendly halogen bulbs, CFLs or LEDs —they can save anywhere from 30 to 80 percent on their energy bills. That means making the switch can reduce energy costs by $50 to $100 annually.
Upgrade Outdated Appliances
On average, US households spend about $5,550 per year on energy. With a simple upgrade to ENERGY STAR or other green appliances, homeowners can save up to 30 percent on their electricity bills annually. Additionally, by replacing outdated HVAC systems with high-efficiency systems, homeowners can add up to 71 percent of the upfront cost to the home's value.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
If a full HVAC replacement isn't in the budget, homeowners can still add value and increase the overall level of energy efficiency in the home with the help of a new thermostat. Programmable thermostats give the homeowner complete control over the heating and cooling system, saving on average about 10 percent on heating bills and cooling bills in the warm summer months. Not only will the home be more comfortable but this upgrade makes the home look that much more appealing when it's placed on the market.
Insulate Upstairs
Adding more insulation is another great way to keep the home comfortable in all seasons and add additional value. Studies show that nearly half of all the homes in the US are under-insulated, resulting in an overconsumption of energy and higher utility bills each year. By adding insulation to the attic, homeowners can better maintain the desired temperature in the home.
Seal or Install New Energy Efficient Windows and Doors
Sealing leaks that allow cold air to spill into the home is an extremely effective DIY home improvement that can save homeowners on the average utility costs annually. Leaks should be sealed around windows, doors, in the basement and in the attic. Another substantial upgrade to consider is the replacement of older windows and doors with newer energy efficient options.
Selling an Energy Efficient Home
Energy efficient homes are a growing trend in today's real estate market. By highlighting the benefits of these efficient upgrades in the face of continually rising energy costs, eco-friendly sellers have a distinct advantage when listing their home for sale. These upgrades will not only allow for increased comfort while living in the home but will also be passed on to future homeowners. For homeowners looking to stand out for all the right reasons, like in communities such as Freehold Township, energy efficient upgrades are one of the best ways to appeal to the modern buyer.
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