Are you planning to build your own home? Looking to get a home construction loan? Or simply designing a durable, energy-efficient, quality home? Building green is becoming increasingly favorable.
A green home utilizes higher quality materials, that are earth-friendly and conducive to a safer, cleaner environment as well as reduced energy costs for the owner. It may cost a bit more initially, but building green adheres to higher, more in-depth standards than standard building codes. Building green will yield you a carefully planned home that will be both a financial and environmental investment.
Building green begins with construction and planning. Building a green home isn’t just about the end product. Green contractors work hard to reduce, reuse, and recycle the materials they are using. This can sometimes lead to savings, if you can find discounted salvaged materials.
High quality materials last longer. Building a green home stresses saving resources. Using fewer resources that need to be replaced less often means saving money in the long run. Also, less toxic substances will be used (paints, sealants, insulation). Remember those old houses with harmful lead paint? Adhering to green standards is a continuation of the efforts to build safe homes for children to grow up in.
Green homes are good for the community. The first thing that one thinks about when considering green homes is the impact on the environment. A green home saves energy, conserves water, preserves natural resources, and creates a safer indoor environment too. Much of the air pollution people suffer from comes from chemicals inside the home from carpets, paints, and more. Building green will utilize only materials considered safe for the owner and environment.
Green homes save money, too. Using less electricity and water means lower utility bills. Installing solar panels can yield savings of up to 80%. There are also many federal and state energy programs that will give tax breaks and rebates for energy efficient homes.
The Federal Housing Administration and the Veteran’s Administration also offer Energy Efficient Mortgages. Owning a green home also increases your equity, which is excellent for mortgages and resale value.
If the government is willing to help you finance, and it will save you money in the long run, it is worth your time to look into a green home. The increasing popularity and necessity of building green also makes it easy to find help with your project. A little planning now can save you thousands in the future, and not to mention, a cleaner, healthier environment for your children.
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