Home Green Home: energy efficient financing & homeowner goals

Green Homes are usually small & energy efficient

Because of the growing demands for cleaner and safer buildings & interior environments, lenders are beginning to recognize the possibilities in “green financing” but for now, the efficiency of these mortgage options is a work in progress.  Energy-Efficient Mortgages (EEMs) are fairly new to the banking industry and even more complex than the processes involved with FHA and Conventional Loans.  As the mortgage industry in 2010 faces more and more complex challenges and recent changes, it seems that EMMs will have to wait their turn.  In the meantime, we can catch up on some defining elements.  Green homes (condos, houses or buildings) share the same key goals in their upgrades or construction:  1.  to save energy 2. conserve water 3.  contribute to a safe and healthy indoor environment 4.  protect natural resources in the present and future. A green home will typically feature many of the following: Smaller size / Environmentally-sound materials / Energy-efficient doors & windows / water conservation (ex:  low-flush toilets) / Renewable energy resources (ex: geothermal, solar) / Natural, chemical-free insulation and clean indoor air elements / Recylced and locally-sourced materials / Rain water collection and,or drought-resistant landscaping / Energy-efficient appliances. Basic Eco-Friendly “Green” Terminology is useful as the green conversation continues in real estate, homes and communities.

Marybeth Cicirello * 206.214.6556 * marybeth.cicirello@exprealty.com * Downtown Seattle Real Estate