Housing Goes Green

I came across this information from a monthly RE/MAX newsletter.  One of the things I touched on in my last post was how going "green" was a big trend in new home building as well as updates and remodels  I think the information provided by them does a great job illuminating some of the ways people are being more energy conscious.  Enjoy!

Housing Goes “Green”

Wherever you turn these days, it seems that someone is talking about “Green”, or “Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED”) certified buildings, and “Zero Energy Homes.” Each of these share a commitment to reduced energy consumption and the “re-use, repurposing and recycling of materials,” “improved indoor air quality” and use of “environmentally friendly” and “renewable products.” Green or LEED buildings generally generate 20 to 70 percent in energy savings, while a Zero Energy Home (ZEH) by definition must generate enough energy to meet or exceed its own heating, cooling and electrical needs in any given year.

With all of the recent attention being given to energy conservation, you might not realize that a handful of individuals began vigorously exploring ways to significantly reduce energy consumption in the early 1970’s. Since then, energy saving practices have been refined and expanded and have been incorporated into projects ranging from small homes to large commercial buildings, schools and fire stations to government buildings. Recent projects have successfully demonstrated the economic viability and sustainability of incorporating rigorous energy and conservation standards into new construction without increasing budgets or extending schedules.

Many conservation efforts are most easily incorporated at the time of initial construction, however some are easily adapted either as a stand-alone project or as part of routine equipment replacement.

Heating, Cooling and Electricity

High efficiency furnaces and/or heat pumps – replacing old furnaces with higher efficiency models or possibly converting from an older type of heating and/or cooling device to one utilizing newer technology can lead to significant energy savings. Many furnaces built just 15 years ago are quite inefficient when compared to models available today.

Insulation – adding additional insulation in attics, crawl spaces and exterior walls are all potential areas for reducing energy costs. Also, by sealing cracks in the attic around areas where ceiling lights and fans are installed or wires are strung can also cut energy costs substantially. When all these small openings are added together, they can have the same effect as having a window left open.

Horizontal Loop Ground Source Heat Pump System – this relatively unheard of heat pump system runs coils 4 to 6 feet underground to tap into the constant temperature of the earth’s soil to provide either heating or cooling depending upon the season.

Windows – installation of wood or vinyl encased triple pane windows significantly reduces heat loss and eliminates drafts.

Building Site Orientation – for new construction, orienting a building to utilize the southern exposure along with window placement allows for the exploitation of both natural lighting and solar heat.

Light bulbs – the days of the incandescent light bulbs may be numbered as legislators across the nation discuss legislation to ban their use in favor of the more efficient LED and CFL lighting technology as a measure to reduce energy usage.

Higher efficiency appliances – installation of high efficiency appliances will significantly reduce energy consumption, particularly for appliances that run all the time, are energy consumers or are used with high frequency.

Water Consumption

Water heaters – there are several energy saving strategies available when it comes to water heaters. When opting to use a traditional storage tank, the location of the tank can have a significant impact on the amount of water consumed and the cost of heating the water. The most economical placement is to have the tank as close as possible to where the water is used most so there is less water wasted waiting for the hot water to arrive. Adding insulation to the first foot of the pipe coming out of the hot water tank will reduce heat leakage. An alternative to the traditional hot water heater is the tankless water heater that only heats the water as needed by running the water through heated coils. This method eliminates the need to keep water hot all the time and the energy required to do so.

Landscaping –by designing and implementing a landscape centered on plants native to your locale that are also drought tolerant will reduce landscape watering requirements.

Rainwater cisterns with filtration systems – also gaining popularity are rainwater cisterns that store water from rooftop collection systems to be later used for irrigation. Sizes vary and can be selected based up on rainfall averages, collection area size, and available storage locations.

Impervious Paving Systems – porous surfaces reduce the impact on surrounding areas by allowing rain water to penetrate surfaces and be absorbed into the soil. Reducing runoff helps alleviate premature expansion of storm water treatment facilities.

Indoor Air Quality

Flooring – several options exist when making flooring selections that will increase air quality. For those willing to either reduce the quantity of carpeting or forego it all together, selecting sustainably harvested wood or bamboo is a good alternative. However, for those set on having carpeting, selecting carpets made using natural fibers with a low-pile can reduce the collection of allergens. Also, air quality will remain stable when carpeting is installed using tacks rather than fume emitting glue.

Paint – better air quality is achieved by using low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) and low-toxic interior paints and finishes instead of other paints and finishes that release higher levels of chemicals and toxins.

Additional Energy Sources

Solar – once thought of as an “alternative” source of energy, solar panels are gaining popularity. Solar panels remain an expensive option; however, their cost has dropped significantly over the last number of years, making them less cost prohibitive. Although solar panels will work in any climate, sunnier locations will result in higher productivity. To encourage the installation of solar panels, governmental agencies as well as some utilities have created different incentive and rebate programs to lower the cost.

Wind – although not practical for the average home owner due to its high installation costs ($40,000 or more), it does remain an option for those located in areas with sufficient wind and land resources. Generally, a home tower will produce between 8,000 – 18,000 kWh per year given sufficient air movement and requires being located on at least an acre of land.

Housings Biggest Trends

My last post highlighted some housing trends that are on the way out.  Do you wonder what some of the biggest trends are?

·         Smaller footprints.  Maybe it is all the baby boomers and empty nesters that are driving this trend but people are downsizing in a big way.  Less space to clean, heat/ cool, furnish…the savings add up!

·         Great rooms.  Still going strong.  The kitchen/ family room concept creates a hub for activity in the home.  Builders are building them that way and many homeowners are remodeling their existing homes to accommodate the trend.

·         Kitchens.  If you are going to be living in your great room, the kitchen better be good!  People are willing to spend a little more in the kitchen since it is not only the heart of the home, but now it is on display as such.  People love islands!

·         On suite bathrooms.  The master bath is a given in newer homes.  But many buyers find guest rooms and kids’ rooms with their own bath very appealing.  It is more affordable that you would think.

·         Closets.  You can never have enough. Period.

·         Creating a “smart home”.  Adding things like charging stations for all your gadgets in the kitchen or office is becoming more popular as is having homes hardwired for mounting TV’s.

·         Renew and reuse.  Home buyers are looking for homes that are environmentally friendly, sound,  and use sustainable products in their construction.

·         Hidden garage.  New homes are often being built with the garage off to the side of the home so it is not visible from the street.

·         Curb appeal.  Houses are being built in a wider array of colors than ever before.  They are also being highlighted by thoughtful landscaping which sets the tone for what you expect to find inside.

Housing trends on the way out

If you are looking to buy a new build home this year there are a few trends that you will seeing less and less of.  Many home buyers are looking to use their space more efficiently and desire a smaller footprint and builders are listening.  Here are some trends that builders are not planning on using so often in their floor plans:

·         Formal living rooms.  These have been slowly going out of style over the last several years.  Builders are listening to demand and creating open spaces that include the kitchen, living room, and family room all in one. 

·         Overtly luxurious master baths.  Spaces are not quite as grand and are using less of the bells and whistles like multiple shower heads and aromatherapy.  Buyers still want a nice bathroom but one that combines form with function in a more traditional way.

·         Two story ceilings.  Whether in the family room or the entry way, overly vaulted ceilings are viewed as space that needlessly needs to use energy to be heated or cooled.  Listening to buyers, builders are now using that space for a room – or bigger closets.  Buyers still want high ceilings…just not that high.

·         Over the top outdoor spaces.  Features like outdoor kitchens and fireplaces look neat but can add a large sum onto your final bill.  Buyers are realizing that they may not use them as often as they imagine and consequently they are being included in building plans less and less.

New Rules Regarding Fannie Mae and Your Credit Report

Did you know that starting on June 1, Fannie Mae is requiring all lenders to check borrower’s credit reports in the final days and moments prior to closing?  Wondering how this can affect you?

Let’s say you were pre-approved for a mortgage 4 months ago.  You found the house of your dreams and your offer was accepted.  While waiting to close, you decide to open a new credit card or finance a new car which creates new debt obligations for you.  Your new debt obligation will now show up on your credit report and your debt-to-income-ratio may now be higher than the lender allows.  This could cause last minute delays for you at closing.

The moral of the story is to think twice before taking on any new debt prior to closing on your home.  This is especially true if the purchase price of the home is at the top end of your pre-approved loan amount. It leaves you very little wiggle room and you could lose the home in the process. Wait to make those additional purchases until after closing. Preplanning and knowing what to expect throughout the entire buying process is crucial.

Container Gardening

The early spring we are having in Minnetonka, Wayzata, Eden Prairie…well, OK, in Minnesota, has had me thinking about getting outdoors and working on some curb appeal. 

A really easy way to make your home “pop” is with your landscaping.  You don’t have to go all out and spend big bucks to make an impact either.  Flowers give you a big bang for your buck especially if you follow a few easy rules when planting.

For instance, when planting your window boxes and planter pots think about the scale and density of your plantings.  You want the colors and textures to be seen from the street.  Many people choose plants that are too small and they just end up getting lost in the container.  When choosing plants, remember that you are going to be burying half of what you see I the soil (the part of the plant that is in the container).  All of the sudden, a plant that is 12” in your cart is now 6” once planted.  Buy the largest plants that make sense for your budget.  Also, pack your plants in…where you may have used 5 plants before, use 7 or 8.  Your plantings will look substantial to start and absolutely stately by the end of summer.



Image courtesy of morguefile



Another thing that I like to do is use a real quality soil in my containers.  I use a product like Miracle Grow oil which comes with a time released fertilizer as well as a technology that helps the soil remain moist.  If you are over planting your containers as highlighted above, they are going to need lots of water and extra nutrients.  Good soil makes it a no brainer so all you have to do is water occasionally and enjoy.   

An easy way to give your planters and window boxes inexpensive height is using thin, willowy branches – like Curly Willow.  Once your plantings are done, pop a few of the branches towards the back of the planter and you get instant height and unique texture on the cheap.  You can even use interesting branches you find around your yard, for free.

The big box home improvement stores, local hardware stores like Ace, and even grocery stores have really good prices on plants.  

Easy Window Film Project



From Light Effects



Do you want a little privacy but do not necessarily want curtains or blinds in your windows?  I recently stumbled upon some window films that solve this problem beautifully and inexpensively.  They are also very easy to remove so you don’t have to worry about making a big commitment if you grow tired of the look over time. You can find them at home improvement stores and they come in a variety of textures and patterns.  The most common brands are Artscape and Light Effects.



From Light Effects



The films are really easy to apply.  Simply measure out the size of the glass you wish to cover and cut out a piece of the film to those measurements with an Exacto knife (for cleanest edge) or scissors.  Next, make sure your window is clean for best adhesion.  Finally, peel back the top of the paper backing from the film, spritz the window with water, carefully line up the window film, and press the film into place.  You will work out any air bubbles as you go.  There are very concise directions on the actual packaging…but it is a snap!



From Artscape



Another way to get a frosted glass look on the cheap is using clear contact paper.  Application is nearly the same except you don’t use any water.  You can even get some paint pens and draw your favorite designs or quotes on the contact paper.  If your kids want in on the act, consider letting them add their artistic flair and draw a picture on the contact paper. 

Think outside of the box…this project does not have to be only for windows facing outside!  You can spruce up a French door or shower door as well.

The Pre –Closing Walk Through and the CLOSING

The big day is here!  It’s time to close on your new home.  Only a few items left to do…
Paperwork first.  A couple of days prior to closing we will do a document review.  You will see documents which show an itemized report of your closing costs.  The report will also show what cash you will be required to bring with you to the closing.  It is best and generally required to bring these payments to the closing in the form of a cashier’s check.
In the day or hours before your closing we will do a final walk through of the property.  This is the time to make sure that any agreed work has been completed to your satisfaction.   You will also want to make sure if you had arranged for any personal property to be included with the sale is left in the home…things like window treatments, appliances, furniture,etc.   Finally, we will make sure that there are no last minute surprises or problems with the property.
The last step in the process is the actual closing.  It usually takes about an hour.  Get ready to sign, sign, sign! Congratulations!!!  You are a new homeowner!  Time to move in!