
Our real estate agents have an exciting new trend in Augusta homes for sale to share with you. It's this: Energy-efficient homes.
Energy efficient (or "green") homes are gaining popularity throughout the United States. More and more people see the value in reducing their carbon footprint by ensuring energy isn't wasted. Not only does this help protect the natural environment, but it also reduces the cost of ownership for any home. A few energy-efficient improvements can reduce energy bills by hundreds annually. With a proactive approach, you may even cut bills by thousands.
This is a crucial matter for new home buyers in and around Augusta. Savings really count when you're establishing your budget and trying to discover exactly how much house you can afford. Luckily, there are some efficient renovations you can install relatively quickly, even if you're putting a property on the market soon. They can earn you a premium on your sale price, too.
Our top energy-efficient renovations include:
- Programmable Thermostats
Your thermostat is the brain of your entire heating and air conditioning system. When you use a programmable thermostat, it will keep these energy-intensive systems idle throughout the day, then reach your desired temperature while you're on your way home from work.
- New Attic Insulation
It's easy to forget about attic insulation—it's often "out of sight, out of mind." However, this is a key part of regulating temperature in your home. In effect, it keeps the structure warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. New fiberglass insulation can be a game-changer.
- Metal Roofing
If you want to go one step further to the most efficient roofing option, you can consider a new metal roof. The remarkable reflectivity of metal roofing ensures that a building does not heat up nearly as fast in the summer. Plus, it is resistant to rain, wind, snow, fire, mold, and mildew.
- Efficient Water Heaters
Old-fashioned water heaters often run at a low level 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This can make them the biggest single user of energy in your home. On the other hand, an efficient model will heat water on demand within a minute or two, reducing waste with no extra effort.
- Efficient Windows
Energy efficient windows come in a variety of styles. The most effective on the market today feature multiple planes of glass separated by gas or a vacuum. This substantially reduces heat loss through the windows. Of course, you should always be on guard for warping, too.
- Low-Flow Toilets
It's staggering just how much water is lost in the bathroom each year. Homeowners who live in areas where water service is costly can notice an immediate improvement in their bills with a low-flow toilet. These use 30-50% less water without any corresponding reduction in performance.
- Efficient Doors
A new door is a great idea for revitalizing that all-important first impression your home gives off. It will increase curb appeal, security, and energy savings all in one. The two most common picks are steel and fiberglass. The latter is highly resistant to weather, but it does tend to be pricy.
Naturally, you don't have to completely transform your home inside and out to make it attractive to buyers. Your real estate agent can help you select on-trend renovations that will catch the eye of motivated buyers. Expert insight truly makes the difference here in Augusta, Maine.
Contact us to find out more. We look forward to helping you find the Augusta home of your dreams!