There are many reasons to live life “greener”—to help the environment and to save some money on energy bills are typically the biggest draws. But how many homebuyers are actively seeking green features, and what are they looking for? According to research by the National Association of REALTORS®, 11 percent of new homes are bought for green/energy efficient reasons. As for which features buyers of new homes desire, buyers ranked the following as very or somewhat important: heating and cooling costs (84 percent); energy-efficient appliances (67 percent); energy-efficient lighting (67 percent); landscaping for energy conservation (47 percent); environmentally friendly community features (44 percent); and solar panels on a home (11 percent). And while all generations seem to be going green for environmental and financial reasons, 14 percent of those between the ages of 36 and 50, and 13 percent under the age of 35, bought a newly built home for green/energy efficient reasons.

Story Springboard

Check out an infographic by NAR showcasing top green features and their popularity. Talk to a REALTOR® in your area to see what homebuyers may look for in terms of green features in new homes. Speak with someone seeking a new home, at least in part because of energy efficiency or green features, to find out why these features are important to them.

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