There are multiple trends in green home building these days, so much so that it can create confusion as to what a green home actually is. People might claim that their home is sustainable without actually qualifying how. We'll look at the parameters and how to identify an environmentally-friendly home that works for you.
A green home is one that was built to be sustainable. This doesn't necessarily mean zero-waste, in that the building is reusing every possible resource. Green homes use responsibly sourced materials that are environmentally friendly or recycled.
Admittedly, this definition is still fairly vague. There are no set standards as to what a green home is, but all green construction follows the same basic goals of conserving energy and water while promoting better air quality.
Today, homeowners might be eligible for local, state, or federal tax breaks for incorporating green technology into their homes. If you were thinking of building a green home, this could be a significant help in affording the cost of construction.
New construction is often the only option for people when it comes to sustainable homes. While retrofits are popular in many areas of the country, remodeling is sometimes impossible based on when the home was built, its configurations or the materials used. For instance, a home laden with asbestos is unlikely to be eligible for a green retrofit.;
Instead, buyers look to new homes that make the most of available technology.
Spotting a green new home isn't always easy. You might just think that the cool roof is a new design or that the low-e glass is regular glass. Other things, like solar panels, are easier to identify. Most builders/developers advertise use of green materials and methodologies, so you may be able to glean this information from signage or other marketing. When in doubt, you can always inquire with the company itself to learn more about their practices.
With over 30 years of experience in real estate, including loans, short sales, new construction, foreclosures and individual business development, Cheryl has cultivated an ability to see the “big picture” and develop creative options to move business forward. Cheryl’s first real estate company (launched 20 years ago) has consistently been in the top 5% in Monterey County for gross volume, number closed transactions, per-person production and top producing agents. Cheryl is a certified Seniors Real Estate Specialist, helping seniors and their families sell, downsize and relocate, and has received extensive training in helping 50+ home-buyers and sellers.
~Cheryl 831-574-9653