There isn’t an industry that hasn’t begun to put efforts into reducing its carbon footprint; the property market is no exception.
Research from the Environment Agency dictates that our living accommodation accounts for 30% of the UK’s total energy usage, as well as 24% of greenhouse gas emissions and 27% of UK carbon dioxide emissions.
As such, the term ‘eco-town’ is often thrown around, while eco-homes have become more prevalent on the market. There are a number of things you can do to make your current home more sustainable, but if a move is on the cards, these are the advantages of living in a more eco-friendly property.
What is an eco-home?
It pretty much says it on the tin - an eco-house is a property built with sustainability and ecological preservation at the forefront. Each will have specialist qualities that can make the property more costly initially, however going green can be very cost-effective in the long run. Some of the features that these homes have in common are:
Higher than normal levels of insulation
Natural materials used in the building such as timber framing, wool insulation, straw bale walls and organic paints
Solar panels
Triple glazing
Wood fired central heating systems
Rainwater collection for flushing the toilet
Excess water collection from sinks and baths for watering the garden
A composting toilet
Large amounts of glazing to allow lots of daylight
A southerly orientation so as to benefit from gaining “free” light and heat. This is normally paired with larger amounts of glazing facing south and smaller amounts to the north.
Why buy an eco-home?
Of course the desire to live a more sustainable lifestyle will be the driving force for many homebuyers. However, on top of reducing carbon emissions and saving the environment, there are tons of other benefits such as:
High level of energy-efficiency means lower bills.
Eco-homes are made from materials with a low environmental impact and as few harmful chemicals as possible, benefitting the health of its residents.
Natural building materials are strong and low maintenance.
Eco-homes try to work with the environment, promoting preservation of the surrounding area. This helps protect wildlife and water supply in the locality.
Many eco-homes are built with waste recycling facilities which means reduced waste production.
Water recycling helps to cut down bills and is better for the environment.
Eco-homes are built to last and will be sustainable for many generations to come.
Are eco-homes more expensive to buy?
Not necessarily. Some have been constructed for less than the cost of a conventional home, however some will cost more. Generally speaking, the price should not be substantially different. It’s worth bearing in mind the fact that eco-homes are built to stand the test of time and will most likely hold their resale value.
For more property advice feel free to call our team today on 020 8445 4008.
