Building your green home

Green home sales are growing in Calgary and Edmonton. In 2023, they grew by 22 per cent compared to 10 per cent for conventional homes.

This increase means that homebuyers are shifting their focus to greener homes because they are more environmentally friendly, save money on utilities, have a potential value increase, and allow homeowners to get tax incentives.

Here are several ways you can make your home greener.

Increase energy efficiency by...

Using insulation that traps heat in the winter. This helps you save money year-round.
Installing high-performance windows that keep unwanted heat out in the summer.
Having energy-efficient appliances such as dishwashers, fridges, and washing machines that use less energy to run, so you’ll save more money.
Purchasing smart thermostats with automated settings that you can control from anywhere.

Build green by...

Using recycled and locally sourced materials when building a home to help reduce environmental impact.
Using FSC-certified wood. Doing this ensures responsible forestry practices and protects ecosystems.
Painting your home with low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints that improve your indoor air quality and create a healthier environment.
Shopping for durable materials to minimize the need for replacements and reduce waste.

Strategic upgrades

Seal leaks to ensure airtightness. This is critical to energy efficiency.
Add a layer outside existing walls for external insulation. This provides significant thermal efficiency.

The positive impact that these upgrades are having on Alberta listings is continuing to grow year-over-year. Certified homes stand out, attract eco-conscious homebuyers, command higher interest, and can potentially sell for 5-10 per cent more in select Alberta markets.

You also don’t have to sell to see the benefits of making your home greener. You will notice lower operating costs on your utility bills, and you can receive tax incentives from various government programs.

Overall, building or renovating to make your home greener can positively impact your health, the environment, and your overall monthly operating expense.

Tagged: green homes | Green Housing | Green Living