There was a time when building a “green” home meant a lot of added expense that was usually accompanied by less comfort and convenience. If you wanted to build something that was easier on the environment, it meant making some sacrifices.

Part of the reason for that is that the materials needed to build environmentally friendly homes cost more—if you could even locate them.  On top of that, there weren’t all that many builders who knew enough about the new materials and technologies to install them with confidence.

Things have changed dramatically over the past few years. Energy-efficient homes are mainstream now. Technologies and materials that used to cost more are in line with conventional technologies and materials. What about sacrificing comfort? Today’s energy-efficient homes are more comfortable—and cost less to heat and cool.

As a matter of fact, a newer “green” home can actually save you a lot of money on utilities every month. So before you consider purchasing an existing home, you may may want to check it’s energy efficiency against a new home with a higher energy rating.

As a RESNET Energy Smart builder, we can help you with a comprehensive HERS (Home Energy Rating System) Index home energy assessment that can show you just how much you can save.  Click here for more information about RESNET and the HERS Index.

If you’re looking for ways to save energy (and money!) in your existing home, here’s a fun tool to try out. Try the RESNET INTERACTIVE HOUSE. You can click on various rooms in the house and get home energy saving tips.

We take energy efficiency seriously. As both a RESNET builder and Energy Star Partner, we’re always looking for ways to maximize utilities savings in every home we build. And today there’s no need to sacrifice savings or comfort when you build a new home.