Why It’s High-Time You Invest in Sustainable Housing

^{An ecohouse near Faaker See, Austria. Photo: Wikimedia.}

Concerns about the environment and climate change have fueled numerous changes across different industries, and real estate is not an exception.

Real estate has become one area were interest in sustainability has skyrocketed. What used to be an add-on feature is now a necessity.

According to a report by Deloitte, sustainable housing is one of the largest trends in the real estate industry in 2021. If you are looking to own, sell or rent a house, opting for a sustainable home brings many benefits that go beyond protecting the environment.

Protecting the environment is undoubtedly the main driver for increased demand and growth of sustainable housing, with studies showing 77% of people want to live more sustainably, but there are many other reasons and benefits to invest in sustainable eco-homes.

From health benefits to financial incentives, the reasons to choose an eco-friendly house are many. Here’s why now is particularly the right time to invest in sustainable housing:

 

1. Increase Value of Property

 

Buying a sustainable home is a great way to secure and increase the value of your investment. Sustainable houses are better-priced than non-sustainable homes.

While this might mean a higher investment price if you are the one buying, it will also be a huge benefit to you if ever you decide to sell too.

In addition, the fact that sustainable homes are very popular right now makes it a more attractive property for potential buyers, giving an advantage to property sellers over non-green homes.

 

2. There’s Increasing Market Demand

 

Millennials are group that’s all about sustainable houses. Since, Millennials are the largest home-buying group in the United States and many other parts of the world, they are no doubt central players in the property market. As a property seller, you should provide them what they want.

Millennials’ interests in sustainable housing is expected to continue driving growth in this industry, along with the Gen Z’s growing interest as well. These younger generations are considered the most environmentally conscious and they continue to show great interest in sustainable living across the world, including the use of solar panels and the adequate use of energy.

 

3. Demand for Sustainable Rentals Is also High

 

The benefits of investing in sustainable housing are not limited to selling or buying properties. As a landlord, you could greatly benefit from a rental point of view.

Just as more buyers are now interested in sustainable homes, the same stands true for people looking to rent. These homes are seen as more desirable as they have the added benefit of not only reducing costs when it comes to energy, but also contributing to environmental protection.

Some renters these days even make green appliances and modifications part of their “must-haves” when looking for a house to rent. Many of them state that they would be willing to pay more to rent a place with sustainable features. This can increase your return on investment.

 

4. Reduce Energy Expenses

 

Sustainable houses are more energy-efficient. These houses can lower and decrease utility expenses considerably, which is attractive to most people.

Many sustainable homes also make use of renewable and natural energy (such as energy from solar panels), which can also have a very positive effect on the monthly home budget.

Moreover, if you have excess to renewable energy in your home, you can benefit by selling it to electricity companies, which is also a boon.

 

5. Build for Durability

 

While all houses are built to be durable, sustainable houses are built with this consideration as a priority. Sustainable homes are made with sturdy, eco-friendly materials carefully chosen to ensure that they are durable and do not pollute the natural environment.

Some of the materials used are lighter and thinner than traditional ones. While this could be a cause for worry, the materials are deliberately chosen because they are stronger. Such is the case with recycled steel, which is often used for the construction of beams for sustainable homes.

Other exceptionally durable materials used in the construction of sustainable homes include reclaimed wood, bamboo and cork flooring, which can last a lifetime and lead to reduced stress of having to find a contractor to deal with maintenance issues every other time.

Renovations and the need for constant fixes leads to considerable waste, which is not good for the environment or your wallet. Sustainable houses help you avoid this thanks to their durability.

 

6. Tax Benefits

 

Many governments around the world are now providing tax benefits to owners of sustainable houses, including allowing loans with no interest when a sustainable house is being purchased.

In the US, tax benefits are also provided to the owners of eco-friendly homes. There is also the possibility of getting credit on taxes, which especially applies to sustainable homes builders.

Additional benefits are expected to continue to be offered, as governments provide more incentives to encourage homeowners and construction companies to take sustainable options.

 

7. Environmental Benefits

 

Of course, there are many environmental benefits when it comes to eco-friendly houses. With lower emission of greenhouse gases, a lower carbon footprint, and smarter energy use, the advantages and positive impacts on the environment is tremendous.

That is especially important considering the current concerns about climate change, and the fact that numerous experts have warned that actions to curb climate change need to be taken urgently.

Plus, these are long-term investments as sustainable houses built today will last for many years and are expected to increase in number over the coming years.

 

8. Personal Health Benefits

 

The materials used in sustainable housing tend to be less toxic and less prone to mold growth. This is a great benefit for your health and that of your loved ones.

In addition, the quality of the air indoors also improves as a consequence of the type of materials used in sustainable homes.