Do you know what a “Green” home is? Green home features reduce pollution, waste, and look to long-term solutions for energy and environmental issues in the community. There are numerous green homes in the South Bay, and homes that have some green features are almost everywhere in the Beach Cities today. Green features include technology such as solar panels, low-flow faucets, dual-pane windows, energy-efficient appliances, strong environmental ratings, and certifications from programs such as Energy Star or LEED.
Aside from all of the wonderful benefits to the environment and your community, one of the best reasons to purchase a green home is that they sell for at least $50,000 higher than a comparable home without any green features. Monthly energy costs are lower, too, not including all the tax rebates and incentives that local and state governments offer to people willing to make the change to a more responsible lifestyle.
My favorite example of a South Bay green home is the Green Idea House in Hermosa Beach (www.greenideahouse.com). It’s 100% green and environmentally friendly in every way, from the solar panels to the recycled materials, the water conservation and the native plants.
You can learn a little bit more about green home certifications and products by looking at these sites:
- Home Energy Ratings System
- LEED certified
- LEED for Homes
- free Green real estate savings online calculator
- Home Depot Green Site
- Green Movers USA