To cater to the growing demand, builders and developers in Connecticut are increasingly incorporating eco-friendly and energy-efficient features into their projects.
Are you planning to sell your house? If so, you may be surprised to hear just how much buyers value energy efficiency and eco-friendly features today. This is especially true as summer officially kicks off.
In fact, the 2023 Realtors and Sustainability Report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows 48% of agents or brokers have noticed consumers are interested in sustainability.
So, if you’re considering selling your house, why does this matter to you? It helps you know what you can do to make your house even more appealing to today’s buyers. 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.”
Consider Upgrading Your Home To Make It More Appealing
If you want to upgrade your house in a way that maximizes its green appeal, you need to work with a local agent to understand what buyers in your area are looking for. The same NAR report identifies the following green home features as most important to buyers at a national level:
- Windows, doors, and siding
- Proximity to frequently visited places
- A comfortable living space
- A home’s utility bills and operating costs
While you can’t change the location of your house, you can take action to make sure it’s as comfortable as possible while also setting up the next owners for lower operating costs. ENERGY STAR shares some suggested upgrades as ones that may be worth considering:
- Heating and cooling: Ensure your HVAC system is properly maintained and regularly serviced to maximize its efficiency. Consider upgrading to a high-efficiency model, if needed.
- Water heater: Your water heater uses a lot of energy. Upgrading to a heat pump water heater can significantly reduce energy consumption and appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.
- Smart thermostat: A big part of your energy bill goes to heating and cooling. Install a programmable thermostat to better regulate temperature settings. This not only enhances comfort but can also lower energy usage.
- Attic insulation: Proper sealing and insulation in your attic help prevent air leaks and maintain a comfortable temperature, reducing the strain on heating and cooling systems.
- Energy-efficient windows: Replacing old, drafty windows with energy-efficient ones can minimize heat transfer and lower your energy bills.
It’s worth noting that you may be able to take advantage of tax credits and rebates for energy-efficient home installations and upgrades. These incentives could help offset a portion of the costs associated with eco-friendly home improvements.
As you prepare to sell your house, it’s important to recognize that real estate agents are valuable resources. They can help you determine which upgrades would be most appealing for buyers in your area and provide guidance on which green features to highlight in your listing. If you’ve already made these updates recently, tell your agent so they can feature them in your listing.
Bottom Line
Focusing on energy efficiency and eco-friendly features can help make your house more appealing to buyers today. Let’s connect to ensure you’re choosing the right upgrades for our area.
Connecticut, like many other regions, has seen a growing interest in eco-friendly and energy-efficient homes among buyers. With a heightened awareness of environmental issues and a desire to reduce energy consumption and costs, more people are actively seeking sustainable housing options. Several factors contribute to the attractiveness of eco-friendly, energy-efficient homes in Connecticut:
- Environmental Consciousness: Connecticut residents are increasingly concerned about environmental sustainability. They recognize the impact of traditional homes on energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and natural resource depletion. Eco-friendly homes align with their values, offering a greener lifestyle and reduced carbon footprint.
- Energy Cost Savings: Connecticut has some of the highest energy costs in the United States. Energy-efficient homes leverage technologies and practices that minimize energy consumption, resulting in lower utility bills. Buyers are attracted to homes with features like solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, proper insulation, and smart home automation systems that optimize energy use.
- Government Incentives: The state of Connecticut provides incentives and rebates to promote energy efficiency and sustainable living. These incentives include tax credits, grants, and low-interest financing for home improvements that enhance energy efficiency. Buyers are motivated by the prospect of financial benefits and take advantage of these programs when purchasing or upgrading homes.
- Resale Value: Eco-friendly and energy-efficient homes tend to have higher resale values. As environmental concerns grow and energy costs continue to rise, the demand for sustainable homes increases. Buyers recognize that energy-efficient homes are not only environmentally responsible but also offer long-term financial benefits, making them a sound investment.
- Health and Comfort: Eco-friendly homes prioritize indoor air quality, natural lighting, and proper ventilation. They often use non-toxic materials, reducing exposure to harmful chemicals. Additionally, these homes are designed to maintain comfortable temperatures year-round, leading to improved overall health and well-being for residents.
- Sustainable Community Development: In Connecticut, there is a focus on sustainable community development. Many housing developments and neighborhoods incorporate eco-friendly features, such as shared green spaces, pedestrian-friendly design, and access to public transportation. Buyers are attracted to these communities that offer a holistic approach to sustainability.
Real estate agents also play a crucial role in educating buyers about the benefits of sustainable homes and guiding them towards properties that align with their environmental goals.
Steve Schappert Founded, and is the broker at Connecticut Real Estate, Schappert owns The Connecticut Art Gallery and Home & Art Magazine Steve also designed, built, and shipped a zero-energy double-walled home to Germany. Schappert is an abstract painting artist and has painted, renovated and provided energy audits for over 1300 homes.
When it comes to real estate, construction and energy efficiency, Steve Schappert is one of the most sought-after experts in the field. With more than 40 years of experience in these areas, he has become a trusted source for reporters looking for insights on the industry. From helping develop net-zero homes to advising on sustainable building practices, Schappert’s knowledge and expertise is unrivaled. Whether it’s for a news article or an in-depth magazine story, reporters turn to Steve Schappert as a reliable source of information. With his expertise and guidance, they can ensure that their stories are accurate and up-to-date.
In the last year I have been interviewed by ABC News Manhattan, Connecticut Magazine and featured in 2 articles in The Washington Post.
If you are looking for a creative broker that thinks outside the box and has been a recognized expert for over 30 years call or text 203-994-3950
