Why Green Homes Matters

Once again, I am thrilled to welcome back guest blogger Andrew Hill, with Reilly Realtors in Austin Texas! Today Andrew explains how wrong Kermit really was: it IS easy being GREEN!

 Why Green Homes Matters

By Andrew Hill @ www.AustinHomeListings.com

 Have you noticed the green trend that’s been happening lately? Whether it’s from the smallest of things, like your reusable shopping bag to investing in a green car or solar energy, it’s easy to see that the green movement has swept the country, including the Richmond Real Estate market. While we might speculate all day on why this has occurred, I think a more valuable use of our time would be to decide what to do with this new cultural element. After all, the once space age concept of using all sorts of new green products is no longer such a foreign idea. Even the concept of retrofitting or build a green home is no longer a novelty- but is in fact, a reality.

Before you think to yourself “Aren’t green homes very expensive?” or “Will I have to live in a house made of recycled soda bottles?” let’s get a few things straight.

1.      Going green doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, there are plenty of ways to go green that will actually save you money. Furthermore, because there is not an official standard to determine whether a home is “green” or not, you can make as many or as few retrofits as you like.

2.      Going green doesn’t have to be a complete alteration of your lifestyle. Many people who switch to green home retrofits can enjoy life the way they are used to, with the added benefit of being healthier and conserving the planet.

So what are some great ways to start green retrofitting your Richmondhome? Based on your budget and enthusiasm, you’ll find that there is quite a large threshold for what you can do.

For baby steps, why not try replacing your old incandescent bulbs with CFLs? In addition to using significantly less energy than older incandescent lighting, CFLs also have a considerably longer lifespan. Want another inexpensive solution? Switching your faucets and showerheads to low flow alternatives is another option. Thanks to marvelous engineering, many of these modern adapters can deliver the same pressure you’re accustomed to while reducing your overall water consumption.

So what if you’re really excited about going green? In this case, you should consider buying Energy Star appliances. These government certified products guarantee a reduction in energy used, thus contributing to a greener planet. Another great option is opting for solar powered appliances when able. For example, many homes can now cool their homes and/or heat their pools via solar panels mounted either on their roofs or even in extra yard space.

The point is, creating a Richmond green home shouldn’t be intimidating or overwhelming. It’s actually a great way to save money and invest in the planet. But remember, this is a very short list of all of your green home options. To find out more about going green or fantastic Richmond real estate service in general, be sure to contact your Richmond Real Estate Agent, Shannon Milligan at Home Sweet Henrico with Keller Williams Realty Richmond West, today!