New Construction Home Benefit

One reason that buyers may choose to buy a new construction home is that many newer built homes have energy efficient upgrades that make monthly utility bills more affordable than it would be with an older (more than 10 years old) home.  There have been many energy efficiency improvements in the past 10 years.  It is important for sellers to understand that potential buyers will compare their listed home for sale to new construction homes within the same price range. 

Look for energy efficiency in new construction

If a new product (home or appliance) uses 20-30% less energy than is required by federal standards, it can qualify for ENERGY STAR certification. There are strict guidelines for a new home to qualify for Energy Star certification which is an international standard developed by the EPA. For more information, click this link:  https://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=new_homes.hm_index

What features should you look for in a newly built home to know that you will receive energy efficient benefits?  First, ask if the builder has an Energy Star certification.  Many builders use energy conserving materials and practices but don't have this actual certification. Remember that this is not an easy certification to attain.  Do you think that it is important to purchase a home that has this certification? Let's talk.  Always ask about the cost savings features of the home.  Ask about the type of insulation, windows, heating/ventilation/air-conditioning (HVAC), lighting, faucets/shower heads, water heater, and appliances that will be used in the construction of your home. 

To measure a home's energy efficiency, a Home Energy Rating System, or HERS is used to score a home.  This scoring system is set by the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) and it measures a home's energy efficiency in relation to a HERS reference home which has a score of 100 on the HERS index.   This is the nationally recognized system for inspecting and calculating a home's energy performance.  For more information, please click this link:  http://www.hersindex.com/energy-efficiency-hers-index-score/

If you have an older previously-owned home to sell, should you feel hopeless about your home's energy efficiency?  No!  There are many things that you can do to make your home more energy efficient.  In Tampa, Florida,  the electric company (TECO) has a free energy audit.  An energy specialist will inspect your home and let you know what you can do to lower your energy bill.  For more information about this program, click this link:

http://www.tampaelectric.com/files/content/EnergyEfficiencyProgramOverview.pdf

Do you have questions about buying a home or selling your current home?  Let's talk.  

This is the goal for buyers and sellers 

Contact me: Diane at DianeAcken.com