Eco-Friendly Upgrades That Can Boost Your Home's Value Before Selling

Selling your home can feel like a high-stakes game of poker—except instead of cards, you’re dealing with price tags and potential buyers. One surefire way to up your game and make your home shine like a diamond is by adding some eco-friendly upgrades.

These improvements not only contribute to environmental sustainability but can also make your home more attractive to potential buyers, potentially increasing your selling price.

So, in this blog post, let’s turn our backs a little bit from the technicalities of selling a home and focus on boosting your home’s value by making it aesthetically pleasing – all the while being environmentally-friendly!

To make matters more interesting, we’ll discuss each upgrade in two ways; (1) generally speaking, and (2) living in a hot climate state like Houston, Texas.

What are the best eco-friendly upgrades that you can do to sell your home quickly?

Energy-Efficient Windows

One of the first things buyers notice about a home is its windows. Upgrading to energy-efficient windows can make a significant difference. These windows are designed to keep your home’s temperature steady, which can reduce heating and cooling costs.

Statistic: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, replacing single-pane windows with energy-efficient ones can save you up to $465 per year on energy bills.

But what if I live in Houston?

In Houston’s climate, where the summer heat is almost a constant companion, energy-efficient windows can be a game-changer. With temperatures often soaring into the 90s and beyond, upgrading to these windows can help keep your home cool and comfortable.

Solar Panels

Installing solar panels can reduce or even eliminate your electricity bills, making your home more attractive to environmentally conscious buyers.

Statistic: Homes with solar panels sold for an average of $15,000 more than comparable homes without them, according to a study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).

But what if I live in Houston?

In Houston, where sunny days are the norm, installing solar panels can significantly reduce or even eliminate your electricity bills. This upgrade not only boosts your home’s energy efficiency but also appeals to environmentally conscious buyers.

Energy-Efficient Appliances

Replacing old appliances with energy-efficient models can have a big impact. Modern appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines use less energy and water, which can lead to lower utility bills for the new homeowners.

Statistic: According to ENERGY STAR, energy-efficient appliances can save homeowners up to $500 per year on their utility bills.

But what if I live in Houston?

In Houston, where managing utility costs is crucial due to the high temperatures and humidity, modern appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines are designed to use less energy and water.

High-Performance Insulation

Good insulation keeps your home comfortable and reduces energy costs. Upgrading to high-performance insulation, such as spray foam or cellulose, can help your home retain heat in the winter and stay cool in the summer.

Statistic: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that proper insulation can save homeowners between 10-50% on their heating and cooling costs.

But what if I live in Houston?

Effective insulation is key to maintaining a comfortable indoor environment and managing energy costs in Houston's extreme temperatures.

Water-Efficient Fixtures

Water-efficient fixtures, such as low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets, can reduce water usage and lower utility bills. These upgrades are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, making them a great option for boosting your home’s value.

Statistic: According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a low-flow showerhead can save up to 2,300 gallons of water per year, which translates to significant savings on water bills.

But what if I live in Houston?

In Houston, where water conservation can be a priority, these upgrades can make a noticeable difference. They are relatively inexpensive and straightforward to install.

Sustainable Flooring

Sustainable flooring options, such as bamboo, cork, or reclaimed wood, are both eco-friendly and stylish. These materials are often more durable and have a smaller environmental footprint compared to traditional flooring options.

Statistic: According to a study by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), homes with sustainable flooring can see a return on investment of up to 10% higher than those with conventional flooring.

But what if I live in Houston?

In Houston, where eco-conscious living is increasingly valued, sustainable flooring can set your home apart and attract buyers who appreciate both aesthetics and sustainability.

Conclusion

We understand that some of these eco-friendly upgrades are relatively expensive and the cost can add up to your final selling price. But if the latter is your goal in the first place, we suggest that you consider these improvements as they can make a big difference in how your home is perceived – especially in the Houston real estate market.

If you want to read more about the Real Estate Market in Houston 2024, check out this blog.