Building a Greener Community With Green Homes

Green living is becoming more popular as more homeowners recognize the importance of sustainable lifestyles. Small changes in your home can end up making a big difference in your community and the environment.

By prioritizing your green investments based on your personal needs and long-term sustainability issues, you can enjoy the benefits of more eco-friendly living. Even if you eventually decide to sell your current property, making green investments now will increase curb appeal and the overall value of your home as the popularity of sustainable living continues to grow.

You don’t have to make dozens of changes to your home all at once. Consider your basic needs and how much you want to invest in green living right now. You might be surprised by how quickly you see a return on those investments. If you’re looking for a few ideas to get started, we’ve got you covered.

Small Changes for a Big Difference

If you want to improve the value of your home while cutting down on energy use, making a few small swaps is a great place to start. Consider changing out your appliances for energy-efficient models. According to the Department of Energy, an energy-efficient fridge can save you $220 over twelve years. Think about how much you might save if you also replaced your stove, dishwasher, and laundry appliances.

In addition to using less electricity, energy-efficient appliances also tend to use less water. Things like low-flow toilets and sinks can cut back on your water waste significantly, and you likely won’t notice a difference in how much less they’re using – until you receive a smaller utility bill!

If you’re in the process of remodeling your home, go green with your efforts! Some of the best sustainable construction innovations to incorporate into your home include:

• Using recycled materials;
• Opting for smart indoor air quality monitors;
• Making use of passive solar power.

These changes don’t have to break the bank or take a lot of time. But, you’re likely to notice the benefits fairly quickly.

Investing in Sustainable Technology

One of the reasons why sustainability is becoming so popular in home design is that technology is making it easier to implement greener living practices. Smart home technology is becoming the norm for many new residential constructions, and it’s fairly easy to install in existing homes, as well. Statistically, convenience is one of the biggest reasons why people are turning to smart home tech. One survey found that 46% of respondents suggested convenience was the biggest drive to switch to smart technology, while 37% said that safety, specifically through smart security systems, was another driving factor.

Smart home technology comes in a variety of options. Things like smart thermostats are very popular. They allow you to program your home’s temperature from your phone. Even when you’re away at the office all day, you can control the temperature and either make it cooler or warmer an hour or so before you’re due to arrive. This can save on energy and ensure you’re not wasting it when you’re away from the house.

If you want to invest in eco-friendly home upgrades and the future of green technology, you have many options. For example, tankless water heaters are an excellent alternative to their explosive ancestors. LED bulbs can brighten your more efficiently than their fluorescent cousins. Solar panels are a whole world onto themselves and can even pay for themselves. Note that they have a considerable upfront cost, which can be financed through government-sponsored FHA loans, home equity, and payment plans.

Fostering a Green Community

The changes you make in your home can influence friends, family, and neighbors to do the same. Things like solar panels, sealing windows and doors, or even planting an outdoor garden can all be inspirational for a greener community.What you drive can also make a difference in how your neighbors see your efforts. Electric vehicles are on the rise. Some of the benefits of investing in an EV include:

• Fewer emissions;
• Potential savings;
• Better technology.

Electric cars can significantly reduce your carbon footprint. While the fuel used to create electricity still needs to be considered, the amount of energy these vehicles use is significantly less.

Don’t be afraid to use technology to your advantage. Automation isn’t exclusive to big industries and businesses. Smart tech has made it easier than ever to install items in and around your home that will not only make your life more convenient but can put you in control of how much energy you’re using and saving.

The more you invest in a green home, the more opportunities you’ll have to talk about your upgrades and changes with friends and neighbors. As you start to see the benefits of your upgrades and changes, you can bring actual, relevant data to local government, town meetings, and community gatherings to inspire and influence those in power to make more significant changes within the community.

Don’t fall for the misconception that one person can’t make a difference. These small changes and home investments will add up quickly. You’ll end up saving some money, and perhaps even making more over time depending on how much waste you’re giving up. More importantly, though, these green home investments are exactly what communities across the country need to start focusing on sustainability and creating a cleaner, greener future for the next generation.