A quick over view of Environmentally Friendly Homes

 What would you do if a client asked you for an environmentally friendly house? The first thing to do is qualify the question.

1)Are they looking for something energy efficient?

2)Do they need a house that wouldn't trigger their allergies, heart condition or other health concerns?

3)Something that was built with mother earth in mind?

4)A building that doesn't need much upkeep?                                              

5)A home where they can watch local wildlife?

6)Something that stays at a constant temperature?

1) A highly energy efficient house will have a H.E.R.S number. Home Energy Rating Score over 90 is highly efficient. Very well build new construction home could have a score of 77 to 85. Just like appliances houses can be awarded stars as well, 4 stars is good, 5 is best.                                                     

2) This person needs a home without V.O.C.'s or Volitile Organic Componds which ‘off gas'. These things might include carpeting, paint, vanish, particle board and Formica.

3) Ask about the construction process did the builder make sure that all trash was disposed of properly or did it blow away or get buried? Are there recycled materials in the house? Is the house properly oriented?

4) Look for things that are Sustainable, not needing upkeep or to be replaced with frequency. This might include floors, walls or counter tops that are concrete or tiled.

5) This should be obvious, however wild life often shows up unexpectedly. Call the local wildlife society or college for more information. Trees, water sources and native grass's offer cover and food for animals.

6) Ask about thermal mass, R values, and the construction process. Again if the house has a H.E.R.S. number all the better.

1) Get educated, more and more people are demanding this type service

2) Ask if you don't know                                                                                                  

3) Ask your appraiser for more education

4) Find your local H.E.R.S. rater, he or she has valuable experience and knowledge

5) Contact the Environmental Protection Agency

6) Join local groups like, The Renewable Energy Society or The Sierra Club