Saving the “Green” with a Home Energy Audit

It’s no secret that home buyers are more aware than ever of the cost savings afforded them by a “green” house. According to a recent NAR (National Association Of Realtors®) survey, 90 percent of recent home buyers thought energy efficiency was a very important consideration when searching for a home. And the demand is growing!

There are a number of things sellers can do to make their homes more environmentally friendly and marketable while reducing their energy and water costs in the interim. The following list is by no means exhaustive…

• Windows: Weather — strip them to improve your insulation with fiberglass alternatives.
• Toilets and sinks: Convert them to low-flush and add water sensors and low-flow faucets to all sinks.
• Fluorescent lighting systems: Replace them with Light Emitting Diode (LED) systems.
• Appliances: Replace them with energy-efficient appliances that meet the federal government’s Energy Star efficiency standards. For more information, visit energystar.gov.
• Heating and Cooling systems: Convert them to Dual-zone w/separate thermostats for each level (or section). For example, in the Winter, warm heated air rises, so you may consider heating just the first floor. In the Summer, cooled air sinks, so you may decide to cool just the second floor.
• Flooring: Replace damaged flooring with recycled wood flooring. Or use low-emission carpeting (and stains/paints).
• Landscaping: Utilize drought-resistant landscaping by using plants native to your region. Place trees and shrubs strategically for Summer shading on your home and Winter sunlight warming. Water with Rainwater barrels.
• Solar Energy: Add solar panels to your roof and you’ll be able to take advantage of many energy-saving applications!

Don’t second-guess the above list. Call your utility company to find out about getting an energy audit of your heating system, water heater, major appliances, etc. Take a quick look at Realtor Mag’s Finding the Energy Leaks.

In addition to energy audits, utility companies may also offer rebates or discounts on energy-saving products. PNM’s Energy Efficiency Program offers several such incentives.

Finally, don’t forget to save your utility bills to prove the energy savings later to potential home buyers. And speaking of buyers, be aware that you can select a Realtor® who has earned NAR’s Green Designation to help you search for environmentally friendly properties! You can find Realtors® with this designation in the “Find a REALTOR®” section at REALTOR.org. For more information about the Green Resource Council and the designation, visit GreenResourceCouncil.org.

If you have any questions about the way energy audits work, please leave them in the comments below. And if you’ve got questions about buying or selling a home in metro Albuquerque, be sure to contact me today!