As a trade professional in the luxury home building and design space, you’ve likely noticed an uptick in green home interest from clients over the past several years. In fact, this article by Tony Mariotti and published by Ruby Homes Luxury Real Estate cites a Business Wire statistic stating “84% of homeowners say living in a green home is important to them.” It goes on to say that 64% of those homeowners would pay more just to live in a green community.
But what does that mean?
Well, in terms of your business, it means there is an incredible opportunity to expand by giving your customers what the data shows they want: greener homes!
While they may not be looking for LEED-certified status from your construction, there are definitely eco-minded moves you can make to provide a greener, more eco-friendly and cost-effective home building and design experience for your clients, both current and future.
The Goal of—and Getting to—“Green”
First things first. If you’re unfamiliar with or have not yet begun building green(er) homes for your clients, let’s start with the basics. What is the purpose of building greener homes? Mariotti continues in the Ruby Homes article, “The primary goal of green building is to reduce the negative impact of buildings on the environment while creating healthier, more energy-efficient, and more comfortable living and working spaces for people.”
Many people envision exorbitant price tags that come with eco-conscious building, and indeed some facets are quite costly. But the return is also great, providing savings and rebates for the homeowner and less impact on the planet.
Here are three examples of green building decisions and the incredible impact they can make:
Energy-Efficient Windows
On average, when energy-efficient windows are used, the homeowner realizes a 12% savings on their energy bill. By keeping summer heat and winter cold out, heating and cooling bills are instantly reduced and can mean up to $600 savings per year!
Solar Panels
Solar panels are gaining incredible popularity as the technology behind their use continues to improve, and the return on investment is increasingly realized. Not only do they use a renewable energy source (the sun), but they are low-maintenance and incredibly versatile, providing light, heat, and hot water—plus sizable savings on your electric bill.
Energy-Efficient Appliances
Perhaps the most accessible opportunity for homeowners to make green moves in their home building or renovation decisions is by opting for energy-efficient appliances. Remind your clients to look for appliances with an Energy Star rating, which indicates the product meets strict criteria established by the Environmental Protection Agency or the U.S. Department of Energy. These appliances not only provide operational savings but often come with a rebate.
When it’s time for your clients to select their new suite of energy-efficient appliances, send them to Friedman’s Appliances, where one of our friendly sales professionals can show them their options and make a positive move towards greener living.