Studies have shown that consumers are attracted to – and will pay more for – developments marketed as environmentally friendly and energy-saving, leading to increasing numbers of unqualified homes being marketed as highly efficient.
As more and more consumers are becoming aware of green living, builders and real estate agents alike are increasingly using the term to market properties, whether or not they qualify for green status.
Here are five indicators of truly green homes. If the property you are looking doesn’t follow these guidelines, speak to the lagent, builder or developer to clarify what green features they have included:
Site planning was sensitive to the environment, minimizing tree destruction and managing water runoff.
Appliances, A/C, lighting & insulation are all certified as energy efficient.
An air filtration & exchange system has been installed to regulate air quality.
The home uses non-toxic building materials.
Water conservation was considered, such as water-saving toilets and shower fixtures.
Buzzwords
While energy-saving appliances and LED light bulbs are earth-friendly, they don’t make a home green. Watch for buzzwords such as “eco-friendly,” “sustainable,” and “high efficiency.” If a home listing or realtor uses these to describe a property, ask for evidence to back up the claims to avoid an issue of greenwashing.
Green home certifications
There are several green certification programs available. Look them up. Under the Philippine Green Building Council (PhilGBC), for example, green real estate developments are certified based on a points system that ranks a checklist of requirements.