The real estate blog HomeGain surveyed 1,000 Realtors from around the country and asked them what they considered to be the best green home improvements to recommend to sellers. If you are getting your home ready for the market, consider investing a little money in some of the improvements listed below. As a disclaimer, we don't necessarily agree with the prioritizing of these improvements, and they won't all increase the value of your home.
1. Paint with low VOC
The most common home improvement task that homeowners take on when getting their houses ready for the market is to apply a fresh coat of paint. While that tell-tale paint scent will reassure buyers that the walls are recently painted, it's not good for your lungs or the environment. Use low VOC paint and let the beauty of the color speak for itself. More about low VOC paint...
2. Switch to energy efficient lighting
Incandescents emit a warm and cozy light, but they waste a lot of electricity in the process. As your bulbs burn out, replace them with either CFL or LED bulbs which last many more times longer and will save you $40 or more dollars over their lifetime - surely worth the extra upfront cost. More about LED lighting...
3. Plug in to auto power strips
I'm a little confused as to why this item made the list. If you are selling your home, then obviously you'll take your power strip with you. And throwing a few in won't exactly sweeten the deal for a potential buyer. Still, it doesn't hurt to purchase an energy conserving power strip that puts your appliances in 'sleep mode' when you forget to turn them off.
4. Install low flow showerheads
Everyone appreciates a nice, hot shower with good water pressure. However, older shower heads can waste a lot more water than you really need. A low flow showerhead regulates the flow without comprimising the quality of your shower. More about low flow showerheads...
5. Upgrade your thermostat to programmable
If you have trouble remembering to set the thermostat before you leave or simply hate the feeling of coming home to a too cold/hot house, then a programmable thermostat might be the solution to your problems. Set a schedule that varies by the day and your activities, and you'll see a significant reduction in your energy bill. Learn how to install a programmable thermostat...
6. Block leaks with caulk and weatherstripping
Just about anyone can operate a caulk gun or nail down some weatherstripping. Check your doors and window frames for gaps. These materials are cheap to purchase and you can do it yourself in half a Saturday. Track your savings in your energy bills and share this information with potential buyers. Watch a video on how to caulk windows...
7. Stage your home the green way
You've probably heard of a home stager who evaluates the condition of your home and makes suggestions on how to make it more appealing to potential buyers, including "staging" props in addition to your own furniture and belongings. A green home stager works in a similar way, but he or she uses recycled props and environmentally friendly materials. Think of it like an aesthetic version of the home audit...
8. Change your air filters
It's important to change your furnace's filter every three months. This helps your HVAC system run much more efficiently and improves the air quality in your home. Buy them in bulk and place notes on your calendar. While this is a great practice, keep in mind it that it won't actually increase the value of your home. Watch a video on how to replace your air filter...
9. Plant a tree
A big part of curb appeal is the landscaping in your hard. Planting trees, flowers, shrubs and other plants can make a world of difference when it comes to attracting potential buyers. And while planting anything is "green" since plants helps to clean the air, be sure to choose native species. They are low maintenance because they are perfectly suited to your climate. Learn more about plants native to your area...