Energy-efficiency Home Improvements Give You More Bang For Your Buck!

Many home owners are under the misconception that if they do a few improvements, upgrades or renovations, they will increase the value of their home and recoup their investment when it comes time to sell it, which isn’t always the case.

Truth be told, not all home improvements, renovations and upgrades are created equal, have the same payback value or are even a good investment and you will probably only be able to get a small portion of your money back upon resale –  if any at all.  In a weak market or buyers market, you may have even more difficulty getting a return on your investment!

All that being said, one area that is more likely to not only retain its value, but also give you a return on your investment is with energy-efficiency home improvements, renovations and upgrades.

Why Home Energy-Efficiency is a Better Investment

Home energy-efficiency is probably the smartest investment you can make, not only for your own personal comfort level and pocket book, but also when it comes time to sell your home.

From a financial standpoint, home energy-efficiency upgrades and improvements are a no brainer.  For example, did you know that installing  energy-efficient air conditioners and furnaces can cut down on a home’s energy consumption by as much as 50%. 

Double pained energy-efficient windows can save you as much as $300-$400 a year in energy costs.  These savings quickly add up and pay for themselves over time!    

Home improvements and upgrades that meet Energy Star’s™ program standards will save you money in energy costs each month, not to mention home improvement energy tax credits.  For more information about energy saving home upgrades and tax incentives, you can visit Energy Star’s™ website.

When It Comes Time To Sell Your Home

The economy has made today’s home buyer a lot more aware of energy-efficiency than buyers only a few years ago.  Buyers realize the outgoing cost of homeownership in energy costs per month, over the life of the home, is as important as the initial cost of the home.

Home improvements and energy-efficiency upgrades that actually save you money each month such as cleaner, more efficient HVAC systems, increased insulation values in attics and walls, stronger and more durable windows, better air ventilation and humidity level controls, programmable thermostats, compact fluorescent light bulbs, water saving fixtures, etc.  are extremely attractive features to today’s home buyer.    

Resale homes on the market must also compete with new construction homes that have embraced the “green” philosophy. Builders are now designing “eco-value homes” with enhanced home performance, comfort and energy-efficiency in mind. 

The bottom line is you will get more bang for your buck if you think ”energy-efficiency” when it comes to home improvements, renovations and upgrades!

Charlotte NC Real Estate - EcoBroker Certified® Professional

Leigh Brown is top producing Realtor in the Charlotte metro-area as well as an EcoBroker Certified® Professional. 

Over the years, Leigh has been committed to helping clients buy homes in Charlotte, NC that are energy-efficient and environmentally sensitive in design.  Leigh also helps clients market their homes for sale in Charlotte, NC with ”eco-value green features.”

You can reach Leigh by filling out the online contact form or give her a call at (704) 688-5005 or toll free (866) 440-7136.

Leigh knows Charlotte.  Let her do the work for you!