See the green

Green aka eco-friendly homes are popping up everywhere and their market appeal continues to rise. However, when you hear green it sometimes makes you think of the other green: money, but this isn’t always the case.

Small changes can lead to big savings that don’t have to break the bank, so reduce, reuse and recycle these steps for a more sustainable home:

1) Think before you throw

They say one person’s trash is another’s treasure and we think so when it comes to composting. A compost area in your backyard can be a huge draw for the eco-centric buyers as it reduces landfill waste, cuts greenhouse emissions all while creating a nutrient, rich addition to soil. Next time you have grass clippings, egg shells or fruit/veggie scraps, keep them for your compost – buyers and Mother Nature will thank you.

2) Clean with the green

Chemical-free homes are all the rage right now. Homes that fit into this category are cleaned with biodegradable cleansers that don’t harm the environment, lack a harsh chemical smell and have effective natural ingredients with stellar cleaning abilities. When you list your home, share with your REALTOR® you use these tools. It can be a huge draw for some buyers and can result in more viewings.

3) Energy efficient lighting

Those swirly lightbulbs aren’t just fun to look at – they actually serve a cost-effective energy efficient purpose. Compared to traditional lightbulbs, light emitting diodes (LEDs) and halogen incandescent bulbs can use up to 80 per cent less energy and omit light 25 times longer. These bulbs may cost more, but their longevity and energy savings are worth it in the long run.

4) Give it the boot

Our shoes hold bacteria, pesticides and toxins, so before you walk through your home, remove your shoes. Get into the habit of taking them off before you enter and leave them on an entryway rug. This step prevents pesky substances from overtaking, ensures you have a squeaky clean space and reduces the need for vacuuming or mopping when showing your home.