In today’s environmentally conscious world, more homeowners are looking for property with green characteristics. Not only is an eco-friendly house better for the environment, but it also cuts down on the cost of utility bills. If you’re about to purchase a Santa Cruz home and want to go green, see below for a few eco-friendly features you should include on your checklist.
Proximity to public transportation or work
Taking a bus or a bike to work instead of driving can really reduce your carbon footprint, so definitely take into consideration a house’s location. Insurance companies might even provide cheaper rates to owners who live close to public transportation.
Quality of insulation
Look for a house that is insulated well at the right rating for the climate. The better the house is insulated, the more heat it will retain and the happier you’ll be with the utility bills.
Water heating system
When looking for a green property, a tankless water heater is an efficient alternative. It will produce hot water on demand instead of keeping a storage tank of water warm when it’s not needed.
Green appliances
If the house you are buying comes with appliances, check to see whether they are newer energy-saving models. These efficient appliances can save you an impressive amount on your utility bills and modern plumbing fixtures can cut down on the amount of water you waste.
Building codes
If you are buying a brand new Santa Cruz home, ask the builder about the building codes with which they comply. If the building is advertised as being built to green building standards, you should do some research and find out exactly what that includes. The definition of green real estate can vary from builder to builder.
These are just a few things to look for when buying eco-friendly real estate. If you’d like more suggestions for finding a green Santa Cruz home, please call me at 831.662.6522 or email me at Lauren@LaurenSpencer.com for more information.
For additional real estate information, please visit my home page at www.MySantaCruzRealEstate.com.
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