Buying an Energy Efficient Home
There are numerous ways to determine if a home is in fact, energy efficient. One of the simplest things to do is to check what the Energy Star ratings are on the appliances in the home. If the home was constructed with energy efficiency in mind, it is likely that the appliances will have a good Energy Star rating. Here are some questions to get you started.
Energy-Efficient Home Buying Guide 101
Regardless of where or when you buy your home, there are several key aspects to consider. If energy efficiency is important to you, it’s best to be upfront with your real estate agent. And ask about features like insulation and smart thermostats to show that you mean business.
When you find a home you like, consider each of the questions below to assess its level of energy efficiency. This home buying guide will help you make the best choice for you, your family, the environment, and your budget.
How Old is the Home?
Older homes are full of unique design features and history. But, they may not be the most up-to-date in terms of modern energy efficiency. It’s even possible that some newer homes were built just before new regulations were put in place.
If you are drawn to an older home because of its character, no worries. While it may not currently be energy efficient, it can be made so with a few home upgrades. New appliances, insulation, window sealing, and smart thermostats would all help increase a home’s energy efficiency. Just make sure to consider these added costs when making an offer!
What Type & Style is the Home?
The next suggestion in our home buying guide is to consider the style of each home. Some building styles and materials insulate a home better than others. High, vaulted ceilings, for example, are a striking feature. But they may make it more expensive to heat your home in the winter. Similarly, log cabins, container homes, and mobile homes may have their own inefficiencies if not properly insulated and sealed.
If regularly keeping energy costs low is a priority, look for homes that use space efficiently and minimize heat loss. If you absolutely must have those high ceilings or oversized windows, there are some alternatives that can help you maintain energy efficiency. For example, smart thermostats can help you regulate indoor temperatures and avoid wasting heat on unused spaces.
When Were the Most Recent Upgrades to the Home?
An important question in our home buying guide pertains to home upgrades. Always ask about what home improvements have been made and when. Sellers often make renovations to areas like bathrooms and kitchens before putting their homes on the market. But, some may focus on cosmetic features and leave energy-efficient upgrades to the buyer. If you’ll have to replace the home insulation or appliances right away, figure that added cost into your offer.
What Type of Heating and/or Cooling System is Installed?
Another hot tip in our home buying guide is to consider what type of heating and cooling system is installed. Does the heater run on gas or electricity? What about the water heater? If there’s an air conditioner, does it involve ducts or window units?
About 60-70% of a household’s energy bill is dedicated to climate control. So, it’s important to thoroughly investigate the efficiency of a home’s heating and cooling system. Be on the lookout for wall-mounted thermostats, specifically in bedrooms and common areas. A house with smart thermostats could save you hundreds annually on your energy bills. Smart thermostats are also a good sign that the sellers have more energy-efficient features throughout the home.
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