Eco-savvy Real Estate

Not only are we as a society starting to recognize "what" is energy efficient but builders and arcitects are starting to implement them.  Energy Star appliances, low emissions carpets/stains/paints, hookups for electric cars in the garage are amongst the wonderful ways we are becoming more energy conscious.  Buyers are taking notice as well!

Lot's of things can be done to make an existing home more eco-savvy.  Simple things like caulking and weather stripping, landscaping (add trees to shade house, drip irrigation system to cut back on water consumption) upgrading to energystar appliances, and even getting an energy audit report done of the home by the utility company can be huge marketing tools for the sellers.  The Energy Audits, can also be done by independent companies, will point out the benefits of: enough insulation, hot water heater efficiency, even dual-zone heating and a/c systems.  Some homeowners are replacing existing fiberboard insulation ducts, on which dirt can accumulate, and replacing it with metal ducts to improve air quality.  Also, carpeting that can release fumes are being replaced with recycled wood flooring. 

In Clark County there are bills waiting to be passed to give property tax benefits to buyers of homes that meet green built guidelines and standards.  With our already low property tax of about 1% of the sales price in Clark County and Nevada not having a state tax---> equals tons of savings. $$$$$$$$$$

Pretty cool what you can do these days.  I'm all for it and will be looking to make some of these improvements on my personal home as well.  Have a great day!!! Christin Griffin, ChristinGriffin@kw.com, 702-353-5161