The current housing market is changing the landscape of home ownership in ways we could not have foretold even five to ten years ago. In contrast to the trading up and relocating frenzy of the past decade, homeowners are finding themselves hunkering in and putting some smart money into their current homes.
The smartest improvement ideas of the current decade are focused on energy efficiency which translates to cost savings and greater comfort. My first question to homeowners, whether they come to see me about a new kitchen, or refurbishing the flooring, concerns the bottom line on their home's energy performance; when was your last energy audit? We begin with the basic assessment and add on with diagnostic testing to see where we can plug holes, and save energy. Why waste time putting in a new kitchen, if you walls are drafty and you can't enjoy sitting in the dazzling new room?
Smart remodeling is about making informed choices about energy, but also about the materials you are going to use and surround yourself with. With the emergence of green building in the past few years, we have an overwhelming selection of flooring, tiling, counters, cabinetry, lighting, carpeting, window treatment...all made with NON toxic materials, with no formaldehyde, or other VOC's which can cause innumerable health problems for young and old. You weight the choice, toxic-non-toxic. Same price, great design options, durable and long lasting. Everything from the paint on your walls to the insulation in your walls can be less toxic and create better air quality.
It's not about green building, it's about smart building. Homeowners who are looking to maintain and increase the value in their homes, are seeing a return on their investments using these criteria, from immediate energy savings to lower health costs, and faster sales when they do go to sell. The added value of green elements such as recycled counter top materials are Immediate draws and market well to informed consumers. Realtors as well are taking notice and are getting trained to identify these benefits for their customers. To learn more about staging and marketing green homes, visit in our showroom in Mashpee, Monday - Saturday 10AM - 5pm or in Boston, (218 Lincoln Street, Allston - by appointment only).Or give us a call at 508-477-7988
or 781-561-1221
