Though it is best as a selling feature for the seller as well as their agent to have a home certified from day one in the building process, a home can be GREEN, in various degrees.
Buyers do love a certificate, though, so if you have plans to build, especially a spec home in this crazy market, call in your local HERS Rater from inception. As there are many points to consider early on. Also check with your local university, many now have solar energy projects and programs (like Appalachian State's Solar Energy Society which can hook you up with low and no cost advice early on and guide you to the sources you need. http://asuses.appstate.edu/ )
Aspects such as Site selection is huge in the green process, so once the footers are poured, it's a bit late to call in the experts in solar and ratings etc. But don't give up. There is still hope in being green. And contrary to Kermit's mantra, It IS Easy Being Green. It just takes thought and planning. Mush of what we read says it costs a bit more. Most figures claim in the 2 to 5% range in total.
http://www.nrdc.org/buildinggreen/factsheets/cost.asp
As on Green Home.org they say you will end up with "...better buildings with lower maintenance, operations, and insurance costs, and even more consistent rent or mortgage payments.
http://www.greenhome.org/building/pros/why_b.html
So don't let the naysayers stop you from doing what you think is right and from having the responsible home you in which you wish to live.
Do your research and you'll discover It Really IS EASY Being Green.
And should you wish to explore going the extra mile check out an Enertia Home, which can be self sustaining. http://www.enertia.com/
See our Enertia Listing in Boone NC here: Take care all. http://www.navica2.net/displays/?n=390&i=656048&k=yf6tC
Judy Wagner, Weichert, Realtors® Weber-Hodges Group, Boone NC
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