Eco-Friendly, Energy-Efficient Homes Gain Popularity Among Buyers
As a real estate agent at Keller Williams Realty in Ponca City, OK, Russ Didlake understands the importance of staying current with current market trends. One such trend is the growing interest in energy-efficient and eco-friendly homes among potential buyers. With summer in full swing, it's the perfect time to consider how these features can make your home more attractive on the market.
The 2023 Realtors and Sustainability Report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) reveals that 48% of agents or brokers have observed an increased interest in sustainability among consumers. So, if you're thinking about selling your home, it's essential to understand how eco-friendly upgrades can make your property more appealing to today's buyers. Jessica Lautz, Deputy Chief Economist and VP of Research at NAR, explains:
"Buyers often seek homes that either lessen their environmental footprint or reduce their monthly energy costs. There is value in promoting green features and energy information to future home buyers."
Maximize Your Home's Green Appeal with Strategic Upgrades
Make your home attractive
To make your home as attractive as possible to eco-conscious buyers, working with a local agent like Russ Didlake, who understands buyers’ specific needs and preferences in Ponca City, OK is crucial. The NAR report highlights the following green home features as most important to buyers on a national leve
- Windows, doors, and siding
- Proximity to frequently visited places.
- A comfortable living space.
- A home's utility bills and operating costs.
Ensure it's comfortable
While you can't change your home's location, you can take steps to ensure it's comfortable and energy-efficient, potentially lowering future operating costs for prospective buyers. ENERGY STAR recommends several upgrades that may be worth considering:
- Heating and cooling: To optimize efficiency, keep your HVAC system well-maintained and serviced regularly . If necessary, consider upgrading to a high-efficiency model.
- Water heater: Upgrading to a heat pump water heater can significantly reduce energy consumption, making your home more attractive to environmentally conscious buyers.
- Smart thermostat: Installing a programmable thermostat can help regulate temperature settings more effectively, enhancing comfort and reducing energy usage.
- Attic insulation: Proper sealing and insulation in your attic can prevent air leaks and maintain a comfortable temperature, reducing the strain on heating and cooling systems.
- Energy-efficient windows: Replacing old, drafty windows with energy-efficient ones can minimize heat transfer and lower your energy bills.
Tax credits and rebates
Additionally, you may be eligible for tax credits and rebates for energy-efficient home installations and upgrades. These incentives can help offset some of the costs of eco-friendly home improvements.
As you prepare to sell your home, remember that real estate agents like Russ Didlake are valuable resources. They can help you determine which upgrades would be most appealing to buyers in Ponca City, OK, and provide guidance on which green features to emphasize in your listing. If you've already made eco-friendly updates, be sure to inform your agent so they can highlight them in your listing.
Emphasizing energy efficiency and eco-friendly features can make your home more appealing to today's buyers. Connect with Russ Didlake at Keller Williams Realty in Ponca City, OK, to ensure you're making the right upgrades for our local market.