Buying a new home is a major investment. You invest more than money- you also spend time searching for a perfect place. And you can’t overlook the emotional involvement, right? So you’ve got to look at all the ins and outs before sealing the deal.
Image by Larisa Koshkina
What if you have sustainability in your mind while buying a home? You’re not alone because surveys show that 70% of American buyers agree that they look for energy-efficient properties. Surely, you may need to go the extra mile if you have a green mindset.
Think beyond looking for specific features in a property. You’ll also have to look for environmental red flags during house hunting. But which are the ones you should worry about? Let’s share a list of warning signs that a house you are considering is not sustainable.
Red flag #1- Lack of energy-efficient features
Even a novice will know that a property is not eco-friendly when it lacks energy-efficient features. All you need to do is check for the basics. Does the house have double-paned windows? Is the insulation good enough? Does it have Energy Star-certified appliances?
Skip the deal if you can see these red flags. You cannot reduce your bills or carbon footprint by buying the place.
Red flag #2- Poor indoor air quality
Another factor that requires your attention is the indoor air quality in the house. You cannot compromise on this one because poor indoor air quality can cause severe health problems such as allergies, asthma, and respiratory infections.
Watch out for signs such as water damage, musty smells, or signs of mold because they have a far-reaching impact on air quality.
Red flag #3- Developer Reputation
Well, you may not think about this one, but it actually makes a difference. Buying from a reputable developer means you can trust them for sustainable best practices like environmental permitting, green designs, and eco-friendly materials.
They include these factors in their Land Development Costs, so they never fall short of expectations. Always check the developer’s reputation and buy from a like-minded one.
Red flag #4- Use of non-sustainable building materials
Construction materials can also impact the eco-friendliness of a home. Does the property have floors with locally-sourced hardwood? Does it use reclaimed materials?
If the property has new and non-sustainable materials, it hardly matches the green perspective. Also, ensure sourcing of materials from local suppliers as it lowers the carbon emissions of transportation.
Red flag #5- High water usage
As a buyer, one tends to look at the energy-saving potential of properties when it comes to buying a green home. But what about water usage– isn’t it an equally crucial aspect of sustainability?
Does the home have low-flow fixtures such as toilets and showerheads? Are there any leaks in the plumbing? If the place has high water usage or plumbing issues, it’s not eco-friendly.
The Takeaway
Buying a green home is no mean feat. You may have a checklist of essential features to look for. But how do you know the red flags indicating that you shouldn’t buy the place? Look for these signs to choose a place good for the environment, your wallet, and your health.
