Green building certifications gain traction with homebuyers
Green building certifications have gained significant traction with homebuyers in recent years. As awareness for environmental issues and sustainability continues to grow, more and more individuals are looking for ways to make a positive impact through their everyday choices, including the homes they purchase. Green building certifications not only benefit the environment, but they also offer a range of benefits for homebuyers, making them an attractive choice in the real estate market. In this article, we will explore the rise of green building certifications and the advantages they offer for both homebuyers and the planet.
The Importance of Green Building Certifications
Green building certifications are third-party verifications that confirm a building has been constructed or renovated using environmentally-friendly and sustainable practices. These certifications assess a range of factors, including energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor air quality, and use of eco-friendly materials. They also consider the overall impact the building has on the environment and its surrounding community.
With the increasing urgency of climate change, it is essential for the construction industry to make a shift towards more sustainable practices. Green building certifications offer a structured and standardized framework to measure a building’s environmental impact and provide a roadmap for improvement. This not only benefits the environment but also has a positive impact on the health and well-being of individuals, as well as their financial bottom line.
The Rise of Green Building Certifications
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of green building certifications, particularly in the residential real estate market. According to a report by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the number of single-family homes with green certifications has risen from 15% in 2008 to almost 23% in 2019, with a continued upward trend.
One of the main drivers of this increase is the growing consumer demand for sustainability. A study by the National Association of REALTORS® found that almost two-thirds of homebuyers consider energy efficiency and environmentally-friendly features as essential factors when purchasing a home. As such, builders and developers are increasingly looking for ways to differentiate their properties and appeal to this growing market segment.
The Benefits of Green Building Certifications for Homebuyers
Cost Savings
One of the most significant benefits of green building certifications for homebuyers is the potential cost savings. Certified homes are designed to be more energy-efficient and use eco-friendly materials, resulting in significantly lower utility bills and maintenance costs. In fact, a study by the US Green Building Council found that certified homes save homeowners an average of $723 per year on utility costs.
Better Health and Well-being
Green building certifications also prioritize indoor air quality, which can have a significant impact on the health and well-being of inhabitants. Certified homes use materials and products with low emissions, reducing exposure to toxins and allergens. Adequate ventilation and moisture control systems are also required, reducing the risk of mold and other harmful pollutants.
Environmental Impact
By purchasing a certified home, homebuyers are making a tangible commitment to reducing their environmental impact. Certified homes use less water and energy, produce fewer emissions, and use fewer natural resources than traditional homes. This not only helps to combat climate change but also creates a more sustainable and livable community for future generations.
The Most Popular Green Building Certifications
LEED
The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification is one of the most well-known and widely used certifications in the world. Developed by the US Green Building Council, LEED certifies all types of buildings, including residential homes. It assesses a range of factors, including energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor air quality, and use of sustainable materials.
ENERGY STAR
ENERGY STAR is a US government-backed certification that focuses on energy efficiency. It certifies a range of products and building types, including residential homes. To achieve the ENERGY STAR label, a home must be at least 15% more energy-efficient than a standard home built to code.
NGBS
The National Green Building Standard (NGBS) certification is jointly developed by the National Association of Home Builders and the International Code Council. This certification focuses on six key areas: lot design, resource efficiency, water efficiency, energy efficiency, indoor environmental quality, and building operations and maintenance.
Final Thoughts
Green building certifications are gaining traction with homebuyers due to the growing demand for sustainability and the many benefits they offer. From cost savings to better health and a reduced environmental impact, certified homes provide a range of advantages for both individuals and the planet. As green building certifications become more prevalent, it is evident that a shift towards more sustainable and eco-friendly practices is not only necessary but also highly desirable.
