Green design = good design, that simple, but of course there's more to it. Eco$mart infers $avings - get it? Return On Investment should motivate all owners to investigate further.   Flex Your Power is a definitive green information site - Earth911 is a recycling location finder for disposal of goods.  the all-purpose green search engine
You must read(maybe print) 2009 family guide to going green. What is green, why and how-to - At home with green explains state, federal and the real estate professions positions in depth. Return On Investment for retrofitting, remodeling and renovating is a prime consideration. Energy efficiency leads to $$$ in the pockets of buyers and sellers. Heating, cooling, insulation, weatherization, doors, windows, landscaping, electricity and appliances are all issues to be addressed by sellers and buyers to improve their comfort and health as well as their bottom line. Efficiency and conservation are key to sustainability, to comfort, health - gracious living; social good coincides with personal good. Professional assessments of home performance reveal health, comfort and efficiency issues that can be mediated to enhance value and quality of living. Energy-efficient homes qualify for energy efficient loans (EEMs) and energy improvement loans (EIMs). I recommend CYES(a summer-time only project) for a free energy audit plus free lightbulbs, shower heads and more and your sponsorship of training for the energy field. Or, one can determine an approximation of an Energy Audit using the "Home Energy Yardstick". The "Home Energy Saver" from Lawrence Berkeley National Labratory is more precise and is under ongoing modification, a wonderous tool.
All sellers and buyers should add home performance testing to their mix together with home, pest and roof inspections. Revelation of issues before pricing makes sense for sellers - no surprises. That means your asking price will be based on knowledge rather than guessing. Testing before purchase for buyers is, well, what can I say - careful buying.
Consider that government and utility incentives resemble “money on the table”, just sitting there waiting. 1BOG is a national cooperative that assists in solarizing by negotiating with installers and manufacturers to save you $$$.
I'll be pleased to help with direction to certified “green” professionals and implementation of their recommendations as well as information on ongoing rebates, credits and incentives. Green Home Guide will get you well along the path.
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