Sustainable and eco-friendly materials and practices continue to rise in popularity and accessibility in the real estate world. Technological advancements and increased awareness of environmental issues have made green real estate a smart choice in any location. Here are some of the main green real estate trends appearing in the market today:
Energy efficient materials and building techniques are becoming more popular with time. Energy-efficiency not only reduces environmental impact of a home but also keeps utility bills low. Solar power, water recycling and other energy-saving concepts are trends that keep expanding in accessibility and popularity.
DIY approaches to home renovations and design are another form of sustainable real estate. Repurposing or restoring old objects, fixtures and furniture helps reduce waste and carbon footprint. Some popular repurposing trends today are using old windows as wall decor or broken sinks and bathtubs as quirky outdoor planters.
Home automation is a constantly expanding trend. As the technology gets more advanced and more affordable, the trend has made its way into countless homes regardless of area or style. One example of smart home technology that is also eco-friendly is a smart thermostat. These devices control the temperature of the home automatically to reduce energy expenditure and waste. Other things like smart light bulbs and smart appliances with automatic power-saving modes are also popular ways to stay green.
Green design has been an emerging trend among environmentally conscious homeowners, especially those in highly urban areas. Green and biophilic design incorporates the natural world into the design of the home. Some prominent examples of this concept are living walls, green roofs, strategic window placement to capture natural light and other architectural features to promote a connection to nature.
As with any trend, these green concepts might not work for everyone. However, with so many new options constantly emerging, it is easy to incorporate some of these eco-friendly trends into your home.
Robin has been a licensed Illinois Real Estate Broker since 2002 and has a genuine passion for real estate. She Joined the Keller Williams family in 2010, where she has been an active member of the Agent Leadership Council. She was one of the founding members of a Chicago area Keller Williams brokerage. Since opening, Robin has again been a valued member of the Leadership Team as well as assisting other agents reach their goals through training, coaching, and mentorship.
