If there’s one thing 2020 has taught us, it’s that life is unpredictable. One would think that with the global pandemic, the real estate industry, like many others, would come to a grinding stop. But, according to HomeLight’s Q2 2020 survey, it took a dip in the spring and as of June, it rose back to pre-pandemic conditions!
As this is a seller’s market, now would be the perfect time to sell your home. However, if you want to get the most you can for your home, you may want to consider doing some eco-friendly renovations and upgrades.
Here are a few eco-friendly home renovation ideas that may appeal to buyers.
1. Reclaimed materials
Whether you’re considering building a deck, remodeling your kitchen, or creating a patio, reclaimed materials are a cheap and eco-friendly option. For example, you can get reclaimed wood for a fraction of the cost if you were to buy the best wood for decks – up to 50% cheaper!. Plus, the reclaimed materials, especially wood, can add charm and personality to any design.
2. Upgrading to energy efficient windows
Energy efficient windows, especially large ones, can reduce heating costs. Triple glazed windows with fiberglass frames are the best choice for keeping the ambient air at the desired temperature. Also when replacing the windows, you have the opportunity to seal up any cracks where air can leak and install new weather stripping.
3. Reduce air leakage and improve air flow
Homes with a draft are horrible for your heat bill because the home will never maintain a steady temperature. Why, 40% of heat loss is due to gaps around windows, black steel doors, air ducts, and drafty walls!
Replacing the caulking and weather stripping around doors and windows aside, you can also add more or a higher grade of insulation in the attic, seal any loose fittings in the air ducts, install roman shades or roller shades over the windows and even use a draft blocker to the bottom for the doors.
4. Upgrade to energy efficient appliances
If you have older appliances, you’re wasting a lot of energy! When you replace the older appliances with new, energy efficient appliances, your energy costs will drop significantly, providing the energy rating is a C and above (A being the most energy efficient option). These appliances include dishwashers, washers, dryers, refrigerators and freezers. They can also include boilers, central air conditioning units, ceiling fans, light fixtures and much more.
5. Install solar panels
Solar panels are a fantastic way to be more eco-friendly and save on energy costs – with the potential to increase the value of your home. This is a huge investment (they can cost anywhere from $15,000 to $25,000) and it will require professional installation. However, depending on where you’re located, you may be able to receive tax credit for eco-friendly homeowners, rebates, and other incentives.
Being eco-friendly isn’t just good for the environment, it’s good for the pocket book as well. The more energy efficient you can make your home, the lower your energy bill will be, and that is something that buyers will definitely appreciate. After all, who doesn’t like to save extra cash whenever they can?
Keep in mind that these are just a small fraction of things you can do to make your home more eco-friendly. Even if you aren’t interested in selling your home right away, these eco-friendly home improvements will at least give you peace of mind that you’re doing your part to limit your carbon footprint while saving money.
