Building an energy-efficient new home doesn't have to mean increased construction and labor costs.
In fact, choosing the more efficient option will cost the same or only a fraction more - and the money you save in energy costs will pay back the difference in just a year or two.
To illustrate this idea, think of your home's energy efficiency as a type of mortgage or loan: the initial construction costs are the down payment; the energy bills are the interest.
The more energy-efficient your home is, the less it will cost to operate and maintain. The money you save in energy bills will add up to a significant amount over the life of your new home.
The easiest way to build energy efficiency into your new home is to investigate your options before construction starts, and find a builder who will work with you to maximize energy conservation.
Be sure to talk to your lender about "energy efficiency mortgages." You might be eligible for a lower interest rate if your home meets energy-use standards. |
