5 Energy Efficient Ways to Increase Home Value
Selling
Although the phrase “going green” is not quite the buzzword it used to be, the idea of being energy efficient is increasingly important. In fact, making your house more energy efficient is one of the top ways to increase home value, in addition to location and curb appeal. Here five ideas for boosting home value:
Schedule a Home Energy Audit
In order to implement energy efficient ideas, you need to know where your house needs them. An energy auditor who inspects your home will identify any areas where you could have drafts, air leakage, or improper drainage. Following their recommendations can improve the comfort of your home while reducing energy bills.
Repair Door and Window Leaks
Replacing your windows with energy-efficient panes and repairing any cracks or leaks are easy ways to increase home value. Future buyers will appreciate the upgrades, and will be more inclined to pay your asking price if they know that energy bills are low, and that no additional repairs are needed.
Reduce A/C Bills While Boosting Curb Appeal
Does your outdoor air conditioning unit sit directly in the sun for most or part of the day? Direct exposure to sunlight could trick the unit into working harder than needed, reducing its lifespan and increasing your electrical bill. Putting bushes, a tree, or a trellis near the unit can add curb appeal while improving your air conditioner’s efficiency and effectiveness.
Inspect Pipes and Ductwork
Has your house had many additions over the years? Your pipes and ductwork may be extra long for no reason thanks to an added master bedroom or enlarged kitchen. Moving your water heater to a more central location can help reduce the labyrinth of pipes beneath the floorboards. This will also reducing the amount of water that is wasted as you wait for hot water to reach your sink or shower. Similarly, your ductwork should be examined to ensure that there are no elongated “dead ends” or cracks between connections.
Update Insulation
Do you know the rating and quality of your house’s insulation? It can make a huge difference in your home’s energy efficiency, and is a question that a potential buyer just may ask in the future. If your insulation is very old or low quality, you could be losing energy through the walls and roof at a rapid pace. Improving your property’s overall energy efficiency will simultaneously lower your electric bills and increase the home’s value.
