CENTURY 21 Thomas has been a supporter of these initiatives. Our real estate agents are aware of the importance of promoting a green economy. They are open to managing listings of eco-friendly homes or sustainably-built homes. CENTURY 21 Thomas real estate agents were happy to share a few ways to go green in real estate and help others take steps to make their homes environmentally friendly:
Improve the energy efficiency of your home - work on the key areas of the home that are common trouble spots and frequently contribute to a home's poor energy performance:
- seal and insulate the outer walls, ceilings, windows, doors and floors
- perform annual maintenance of your heating and cooling system, clean the filter, install and use a programmable thermostat
- use geothermal energy to heat and cool your home by using a ground-source heat pump
- use energy efficient lighting and appliances labeled as energy star products
- use the food you already bought and have in the house instead of buying more
- reuse items around the house such as rags and wipes, empty jars and mugs, party decorations, and gift wrap
- return used car tires to retailers or wholesalers that recycle or retread them
- mow higher and leaving the clippings (called grasscycling). Homeowners can reduce their mowing time by 30 to 40 percent by not having to bag clippings.
Compare your home's energy use to similar sized homes and climates across the country with the Home Energy Yardstick (home utility bills needed) to see how you measure up with your neighbors. Going green is not just a fad–it’s an important element in our fight to save and preserve our planet for the future.
Resources:
EPA - Green Building
Energy Star resources:
National Association of the Remodeling Industry - Green Remodeling 101
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