Date Posted: 2012-06-07 03:11:53
Site Posted: Myproperty.ph
When buying a house, the factors that people usually base their choice on are price, aesthetics and location. These days, however, people are becoming more conscious of the effect that their daily living has to the environment, which is why many are including eco-friendliness to their ideal house’s list of characteristics.
People who are looking to buy houses for sale can easily make sure that their choice will help them practice green living by remembering these tips. (Note: Some of these can also be applied to people looking for a condo for sale.)
1. Landscape area – A wide landscape can be great for people who enjoy gardening or have children that love playing outside, but it may not be the best choice in terms of water conservation. A bigger landscape or garden means more water needed to maintain it. If having a garden is important to you, be sure that you choose a house that has landscaping that won’t need a lot of water. If it’s for the children, it might be best to pick a house close to a park or playground where they can play and socialize with other kids.
2. Windows – Strategically placed windows or windows that are wide enough can allow a lot of sunlight into your home. During the day, you can keep the lights of and use natural light while working or lounging around the house. This will help you reduce your energy consumption, which will not only lower your greenhouse gas emission, but will also keep your electricity bills down.
3. Appliances (if included) – If the homeowners are selling their house with some appliances included, check if the appliances are carrying the Energy Star label, which is your assurance that these appliances use less electricity when operated. If not, and if they are a few years old anyway, replace them with new, energy efficient ones.
4. Walkability – Every time you use your car to get to your office, the bank, a restaurant and other places you frequent, your vehicle emits carbon into the atmosphere and contributes to air pollution. By choosing a house that is close to these places, you can use your car less and opt to walk or ride a bike instead.
Whether you are looking at houses or condos, remember these tips to ensure that you are living green all the way.
Jillian Cariola, Writer
(cover image by Scott Robinson)
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