Everything we do has an effect on the environment. Be it the cars we drive, the food we eat, or the devices we use on a daily basis, it’s impossible to escape the fact that, for better or worse, we are always making trade-offs on our environmental impact.
The same is true in real estate.
These days, it’s more important than ever that we find ways to minimize, mitigate, or even counteract damage to the environment, and one of the best ways we can do that is through eco-friendly housing.
But green real estate isn’t just better for the environment. It’s better for the residents, it’s better for the homeowners or landlords, and, most importantly, it’s better for you.
Today we’re going to look at some ways that you can improve your real estate investments whilst simultaneously doing your part to help the planet.
How to Develop Green Real Estate
Temperature Control
Perhaps the single biggest impact real estate can have on the environment comes from temperature control. In cold regions, many houses leak heat through poorly insulated doors and windows, while in warmer climates, homes often require air-conditioning to see people through the summer months.
It’s not hard to see the problem here. Both heating and air-conditioning suck up huge amounts of power, leading to more emissions and higher energy costs.
But is there a better way?
Depending on where your real estate investments are, there are a number of ways to improve a building’s natural climate control. Through methods such as passive cooling, double-glazed windows, or air source heat pumps, you can transform your properties into modern, eco-friendly real estate.
And it’s not only houses!
These methods work for offices, apartments, condos, and more!
Natural Lighting
Similar to passive cooling, natural lighting is a great way to take advantage of the world around you in a way that’s affordable and eco-friendly. While it won’t be appropriate for all builds, wherever you can find a method to improve natural lighting, it’s probably a good idea.
Not only is sunlight nice to look at, and good for people’s mental health, but it can also save on artificial lighting costs.
It’s a real win-win!
Alternative Energy
You’ve no doubt already heard about the benefits of solar panels, but even if you’re not convinced, it might be worth reconsidering. Solar-powered roofing has come a long way since it was first introduced as a viable commercial venture and will likely continue to improve for years to come.
While it isn’t the most affordable investment, it’s well worth considering for higher-end homes and offices. They might not be the most aesthetic choice but, depending on your target market, the savings alone could be a massive selling point.
Green renovations make properties cheaper to run whilst simultaneously driving up their value. In the years to come, the appeal of eco-friendly housing is only going to increase, so by incorporating these techniques into your renovations now, you can be at the forefront of the new green wave of real estate.
And remember, when you make eco-friendly renovations, you’re not just investing in your future, but you’re also investing in the future of the whole planet.
