Is sustainable housing just a real estate buzz word or is it actually happening in the real estate industry? Sustainable housing is a multi-faceted and evolving term encompassing eco-friendly construction and design with low environmental impact and higher energy efficiency. It also entails lasting economic, health, and social benefits to households and the community. Many home builders are now very conscious of constructing dwellings that incorporate sustainable features.
In 2015, the National Association of REALTORS® conducted a study of features that constitute a green, healthier home and community. They are as follows:
- Solar panels for electricity to power the house and charge your electric car
- Solar panels for hot water and space heat
- High walk score, transit, and biking score to lower commuting costs and day-to-day travel (reducing carbon emissions)
- Energy efficient utilities, appliances, and lighting
- Smart/connected home
- Green community with bike lanes and paths, open space
- Landscaping for water conservation, rooftop gardens
- Efficient domestic water usage by using low flow shower heads and smaller capacity toilets
- Interior air quality/radon mitigation