Just for those of you that aren't aware, the City of Austin has a new law going into effect on June 1, 2009 that will affect everyone buying or selling a home or commercial property built more than 10 years ago.  As a result, you will have to have an energy audit performed on the property before the sale can go through.  This will be required of all Austin Energy users.  The cost is estimated around $350 - $400 for a 2500 SF home, but will obviously be much more expensive for large commercial properties. 

I'm all about being green and energy efficient, but I think it needs to be an individual choice, not forced on you by the government at any level.  However, it doesn't matter what I think!  Just in case you were thinking of skipping out on this extra cost, the penalty from the city will set you back $2,000.