Sustainable and eco-friendly materials and practices continue to rise in popularity and accessibility in the real estate world. Technological advancements and increased awareness of environmental issues have made green real estate a smart choice in any location. Here are some of the main green real estate trends appearing in the market today:
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficient materials and building techniques are becoming more popular with time. Energy-efficiency not only reduces environmental impact of a home but also keeps utility bills low. Solar power, water recycling and other energy-saving concepts are trends that keep expanding in accessibility and popularity.
Repurposed Materials
DIY approaches to home renovations and design are another form of sustainable real estate. Repurposing or restoring old objects, fixtures and furniture helps reduce waste and carbon footprint. Some popular repurposing trends today are using old windows as wall decor or broken sinks and bathtubs as quirky outdoor planters.
Smart Homes
Home automation is a constantly expanding trend. As the technology gets more advanced and more affordable, the trend has made its way into countless homes regardless of area or style. One example of smart home technology that is also eco-friendly is a smart thermostat. These devices control the temperature of the home automatically to reduce energy expenditure and waste. Other things like smart light bulbs and smart appliances with automatic power-saving modes are also popular ways to stay green.
Green & Biophilic Designs
Green design has been an emerging trend among environmentally conscious homeowners, especially those in highly urban areas. Green and biophilic design incorporates the natural world into the design of the home. Some prominent examples of this concept are living walls, green roofs, strategic window placement to capture natural light and other architectural features to promote a connection to nature.
As with any trend, these green concepts might not work for everyone. However, with so many new options constantly emerging, it is easy to incorporate some of these eco-friendly trends into your home.
About the Author
Richard Powers
Born and raised in Lynn, Massachusetts, Richard has been a successful Real Estate Agent, specializing in the Greater Lynn area for 28 years. He was awarded the prestigious Centurion Award for 19 years in honor of his outstanding number of listings and sales and was the recipient of numerous Diamond Awards for exceptional sales and service.
In his spare time, Rich enjoys golfing, hiking with his dogs and practicing Karate, in which he holds a second-degree black belt. He also enjoys volunteering for various animal rescue groups with his wife of 33 years and is especially dedicated to supporting Faithful Companions, a local non-profit group that helps families in need receive life saving veterinary treatment for their cherished pets.
The next time you need an experienced Real Estate Agent, be sure to give Rich a call. His professionalism and knowledge of the Real Estate Industry are unrivaled.
