What is a Green Home?

Although certifications are necessary to officially designate a home “green,” anyone can make their home and their lives greener.

A home’s individual green features are what make it environmentally friendly or “greener.” An environmentally friendly home is a home that—compared with a standard home—uses less energy, water, and natural resources; creates less waste; and is healthier for its inhabitants.

Homes can be built green-conscious, or they can undergo green enhancements (eco-conscious alterations or remodels) after they are created.

A home that is eco-friendly should encompass one or all of the five key green principles outlined below and should:

1.Conserve natural resources.

2. Use energy efficiently

3. Have improved indoor air quality relative to normal building standards.

4. Create less waste to build and live relative to normal building standards.

5. Be part of a livable community.

Green homes boast features that will result in a 75 percent water savings and a 30 percent savings on a typical electric or gas bill.

Additional features in a "green" home:

• ENERGY STAR appliances
• Efficient glass
• Extra insulation
• Paperless drywall
• Solar electricity
• Special high-efficiency HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning)
• A “fresh-air exchange” system that prevents stale air from being kept inside the house
• Drought-friendly landscaping and regionally native plants
• Tank-less water heaters in the house and casita
• Water-saving faucets and toilets.

If you are just starting your home search, consider buying a home that embodies the key green principles (efficient use of energy, water, and resources, high indoor-air quality, and is in a “livable” community). Green homes are not only more cost-effective in the long-run, they also are healthier and more durable than the standard home.

Ask your Realtor for more information on making your home eco-friendly!