Insulation and Heating Efficiency Increase Home Value – Worcester, Boston

Remodeled homes definitely have their appeal, but more and more, homes with energy efficient and environmentally friendly features are becoming a priority for prospective buyers. Home insulation can increase the desirability of your home.

According to the National Association of REALTORS 2012 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, nearly nine out of 10 recent home buyers said that heating and cooling costs were somewhat or very important when considering a home for purchase.

Realtors know that consumer demand for greener homes has grown considerably over the past several years. Going green has proven to be more than a trend; many people now seek out this way of living and want homes and communities that are more resource efficient and sensitive to the environment. As energy savings and green building features are becoming more important to buyers, sellers and businesses, it comes as no surprise that consumers are placing a higher value on properties with those features.

Homes with the right home insulation have lower energy costs. Simple math shows how a higher energy efficiency rating offers homeowners the opportunity to save more money in heating and cooling costs alone.

NAR data shows how features directly affecting monthly energy costs are important to buyers. 39% of survey respondents reported that a home’s heating and cooling costs were very important when considering a home for purchase.

Regionally, buyers in the north and south placed a greater importance on heating and cooling costs, most likely due to the more extreme temperatures in these areas of the country. Nearly 60 percent of buyers who bought homes built in 2011 said heating and cooling costs were very important.

As energy costs continue to rise, look for those numbers to increase right along with them.

While new construction features like lot design, preparation and development are fairly set in stone in an existing home, there are many options when it comes to energy efficiency (improvements that will make the home less expensive to operate and more comfortable to live in), home insulation, water efficiency  and indoor air quality.

While replacing HVAC or adding insulation may not be on the same level as a new kitchen or bathroom when it comes to appearances, they are definitely a smart way to use your remodeling budget. Not only will energy-efficient improvements start paying you back immediately, they will also make your home more comfortable no matter what season it is.

NWI Times