How Eco-Friendly Features Can Boost Your Home’s Value

How Eco-Friendly Features Can Boost Your Home’s Value

If you're considering selling your house, or just want to boost its value and appeal for the future, here’s an important tip: homebuyers are increasingly seeking homes with environmentally friendly features. Incorporating such elements into your home can significantly enhance its attractiveness to potential buyers.

What Energy Efficient Features Do Buyers Want?

According to recent data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), when buyers consider eco-friendly features, they are specifically looking for the following (see visual below):

• Heating and cooling costs: 82% of buyers consider heating and cooling costs to be one of the most important factors when looking for a home. And efficient heating and cooling systems with programmable thermostats can significantly lower monthly energy bills.
• Windows and doors with proper insulation: These help maintain comfortable indoor temperatures without overworking the HVAC system, which turns into saving on energy bills.
• Energy-efficient lighting and appliances: These can save money on utility bills and reduce a home's overall energy use too.
• Commuting costs and environmentally friendly community features: Living in a community designed with energy-saving amenities and shorter commutes can reduce expenses and environmental impact.
• Landscaping for energy conservation: Strategically placed trees and shrubs can lower cooling costs in the summer.
• Solar panels: Solar panels can also provide long-term savings and are an attractive feature for eco-conscious buyers.

The common theme here is that environmentally friendly features are popular with buyers because they offer cost savings and make homes more comfortable to live in. Implementing some of these updates before selling your house not only benefits future buyers but can also be advantageous for you. These improvements can enhance your home's marketability and potentially increase its sale price.

How Green Features Benefit You

If your appliances or systems are showing their age, upgrading them now not only allows you to enjoy immediate savings and increased comfort but also prepares your home for future sale. The U.S. Department of Energy has introduced Home Energy Rebates, offering up to $14,000 in savings for energy-efficient upgrades such as insulation, duct sealing, and heat pumps. These rebates make enhancing your home's efficiency more affordable than ever.

When the time comes to sell, these upgrades can pay dividends again. Energy-efficient homes are more attractive in competitive markets, appealing to a growing demographic of environmentally conscious buyers. Studies have shown that homes with energy-efficient features, like high-efficiency HVAC systems or modern insulation, not only attract more interest but also tend to sell at higher prices. Research from Freddie Mac indicates that homes with high energy-efficiency ratings sell for an average of 2.7% more than those without such upgrades.

Work with a Real Estate Agent to Maximize Value

If you're uncertain about which upgrades to prioritize, a local real estate agent can be a valuable resource. They can help you identify the eco-friendly features that are most valued by buyers in your area. Whether it's installing Energy Star appliances or enhancing insulation, they'll assist you in making the most beneficial choices for both your house and your budget. This tailored advice ensures that your investments not only improve your current living conditions but also increase your home's appeal and value when you decide to sell.

Bottom Line

Making environmentally friendly upgrades can be beneficial in multiple ways. You'll enjoy immediate savings on energy bills and enhanced comfort in your home. Moreover, you'll have the satisfaction of contributing to a more sustainable future and increasing your home's value. If you’re ready to find out how you can make your house stand out in the market, let’s connect.