Selling a house can be a daunting task, but did you know that making your home energy efficient and eco-friendly can make it even more appealing to buyers? This is especially true as summer officially begins and homebuyers become more environmentally conscious. According to the National Association of Realtors’ 2023 Realtors and Sustainability Report, nearly 50% of agents or brokers have noticed a growing interest in sustainability among consumers. So, if you’re planning to sell your house, now is the perfect time to make some green upgrades.
First and foremost, energy efficiency is a top priority for most homebuyers. This means that buyers are looking for houses with features that can help reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills. Simple upgrades like adjusting the thermostat, sealing gaps and leaks in windows and doors, and adding insulation can make a significant difference. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling account for 48% of a household’s energy consumption. Upgrading to a high-efficiency HVAC system can be a significant selling point for your home.
In addition to energy efficiency and eco-friendly features, homebuyers are increasingly interested in homes with outdoor spaces that promote sustainability. Features like rainwater harvesting, native landscaping, and organic gardens can demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and provide a unique selling point. The outdoor space can be just as vital as the indoor space, and sellers should consider showcasing these features when listing their home.
According to Jessica Lautz, Deputy Chief Economist and VP of Research at NAR:
“Buyers often seek homes that either lessen their environmental footprint or reduce their monthly energy costs. There is value in promoting green features and energy information to future home buyers.”
Take into account improving your house to make it more desirable
You must collaborate with a local agent to comprehend what prospective buyers in your area are looking for if you want to make improvements to your home that will maximize its green appeal. According to the same NAR report, buyers across the country place the utmost value on the following green home features:
- Windows, doors, and siding
- Proximity to frequently visited places
- A comfortable living space
- A home’s utility bills and operating costs
While you cannot change the location of your home, you can take steps to make it as cozy as possible and to lower operating costs for the subsequent owners. ENERGY STAR suggests the following improvements as ones to take into consideration:
For maximum efficiency in heating and cooling: make sure your HVAC system is well-maintained and regularly serviced. If necessary, think about switching to a high-efficiency model.
Water heater: Your water heater consumes a lot of energy. Making the switch to a heat pump water heater can significantly lower energy usage and attract customers who care about the environment.
Smart thermostat: Heating and cooling account for a significant portion of your energy bill. Put in a programmable thermostat to control temperature settings more effectively. This can reduce energy use in addition to improving comfort.
Insulation in the attic: A properly sealed and insulated attic helps keep out air leaks and maintain a comfortable temperature, which relieves pressure on the heating and cooling systems.
Energy-efficient windows: Replacing old, drafty windows with energy-efficient ones can minimize heat transfer and reduce your energy costs.
It’s important to remember that you might be able to benefit from tax credits and rebates for energy-efficient home installations and improvements. The financial burden of making eco-friendly home improvements may be partially offset by these incentives.
It’s important to understand that real estate agents are helpful resources as you get ready to sell your home. They can offer advice on which upgrades would appeal to local buyers the most and which eco-friendly features to emphasize in your listing. Inform your agent if you’ve recently made these updates so they can highlight them in your listing.
Creating a green home is not only beneficial to the planet, but it’s also an effective way to appeal to homebuyers looking for energy efficiency and eco-friendly features. With sustainability becoming increasingly popular, incorporating these features into your home can significantly increase its value and attract buyers from a wide range of demographics. So, if you’re planning to sell your house, now is the perfect time to consider these green upgrades. Remember, small steps can lead to significant changes, and selling an environmentally-friendly home is a win-win situation for both you and the environment.