While some of us like to "shoot from the hip", there are others that are very organized in their thoughts and processes.  Initially, I'm an organized individual and unfortunately, there are a lot of days that I "shoot from the hip."  So, I guess I'm a little bit of both personalities.

For those of you who hate organized ideologies, you have to admit that a little bit of organization can go along way.  In fact, when it comes to buying a home, answering some key questions just makes the process so much easier and helps you figure out what your true priorities are.  See Planning the Key to Home Buying Success.

New construction works the same way and more specifically when you discuss "green" homes.  "Green" homes start with a smart design and efficient technology systems to create green homes.  In fact, the planning or design stage, in my opinion, is one of the most important steps in the process.  Deciding what factors are important to you in the beginning saves a lot of time and possibly a lot of money in the future.

Green homes are about having "residential structures that achieve optimal year-round comfort, reduce energy consumption, improve indoor air quality, and limit environmental impact." (http://www.solarenergy.org/workshops/sushomedesonline.html).  This type of home is about taking the house as a whole unit, being aware of the climate and temperature changes and knowing which design strategies can handle the environment and its natural surroundings.  In order to reduce energy consumption, green designers look at other ways of obtaining other forms of renewable energy, such as solar, wind.   In fact, here's what Wikipedia defines renewable energy as, "Renewable energy effectively uses natural resources such as sunlight, wind, rain, tides and geothermal heat, which are naturally replenished. 

Let's discuss solar energy.  To effectively use solar energy, the placement of the house on the lot is a big issue.  Builders that are trying to use other sources of heat, will look for a lot which gives the front of the home a southern exposure.  The placement of the sun during the different seasons give the home optimal sunlight exposure and natural heat helps with heating and cooling costs.  To see a more detailed explanation of why this is important, a great article can be found at... http://money.howstuffworks.com/southern-exposure.htm

One of my green listings located at 11638 Pierce Rd, in Stanton has used green thinking in their planning of this home that is solidly constructed to achieve that "optimal year-round comfort, reduce the energy consumption, improve indoor air quality and limit environmental impact."  This home starts with the southern exposure to take advantage of the solar heat and reduce your energy bill.  The home also contains some other great Green features that will be talked about at a later date.  Understanding some of the thought processes behind the green way of thinking, helps you be more knowledgeable about the process.  Regardless of the process, green built homes provide a great healthy home which is becoming more important every day.