If you’re looking to buy or sell your home, some things people are more conscious of include sustainability, energy efficiency, and savings. While turning off lights when you’re not in the room, taking shorter showers (no thank you), and keeping your heat and air conditioning set at recommended temperatures are good ways to save money and energy, efficiencies can go a lot deeper than that. With the evolution of smart homes and energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs, cutting costs on your energy bills and making your home more desirable to a potential buyer has never been simpler. Here are some tips for being cost-effective in your home.

1. Make sure your home is properly insulated. Having proper insulation can drastically reduce the amount of energy required to heat or cool a home. While it might seem like a lot to make sure your house is insulated properly hiring a professional, or including it in a remodel can make it easier. Insulation doesn’t stop at walls and ceilings. You also want to make sure your doors and windows are properly sealed so you don’t let hot or cold air escape your home.

2. While we’re talking about windows, energy-efficient windows can also help you reduce energy bills. There are a lot of things to look at with energy-efficient windows. If you’re giving your home a facelift with new windows you want to look for the Energy Star certification. These windows have met strict guidelines set by the US Environmental Protection Agency.

3. Investing in energy-efficient appliances for your home will also help. Just like your doors and windows, buying appliances with the Energy Star rating will help use less energy and save money on utility bills. When thinking about appliances don’t stop at the kitchen. You also want to think about your washer and dryer, and even items like vacuum cleaners and carpet cleaners. 

4. Get a programmable thermostat. Older thermostats make it difficult to control the temperature of your house while you’re not home. With a smart thermostat you can warm or cool your home from your phone while you’re gone, then readjust the temperature when you’re on your way home so you walk into the perfect atmosphere.

5. LED light bulbs use up to 90% less energy than traditional bulbs, and last up to 25 times longer! You can also find LED bulbs that are color-changing so you can have fun mood lighting if you’re having a party, binge-watching your favorite series, or if you just like a certain color.

There are so many other ways you can create a home that’s high value and low utility cost, but following these tips is a great start. If you are looking to make improvements to your home before you sell, one of our agents would be happy to talk to you about what your best plan of action would be. If you’re looking to purchase a home that is set up for energy efficiency give us a call! We will be happy to hear what you’re looking for in a home and help you start searching for your next dream home.