What makes a house sustainable?
Residential
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This is primarily due to increased environmental awareness, encouraging people to reduce their carbon footprints. Government incentives - like rebates for energy-efficient upgrades - further boost the appeal of sustainable properties. For example, the Warmer Kiwi Homes Fund covers up to 90% of the underfloor and ceiling insulation costs.
Moreover, the potential for long-term savings on power, gas, water bills or heating - thanks to features like solar panels and energy-efficient appliances - makes these homes practical for the planet and the wallet. As a result, sustainability has become a rising consideration in home-buying decisions.
Sustainable features - such as rainwater collection systems, low-flow fixtures and greywater recycling - reduce water consumption. A 44-gallon drum or a 200-litre rain barrel can effectively water a garden, helping homeowners make the most of available rainfall. This is especially important in regions where conserving every drop counts. Capturing and reusing rainwater can reduce reliance on mains water and support a more sustainable lifestyle.
When exploring property listings, buyers can look for mentions of water-saving systems or photos showing installed rain barrels and efficient fixtures. It's also helpful to ask, "Does the home have a rainwater harvesting system?" or, "How much water can be saved through these features?" to understand the home's potential for conservation better.
Energy-efficient homes often include appliances and solar panels that significantly lower consumption. Built-in insulation further enhances this by minimising thermal transfer, ensuring a comfortable indoor temperature year-round. Meanwhile, energy-efficient appliances use less electricity, while solar panels generate renewable power.
These features help lower utility costs and greenhouse gas emissions, positively impacting the environment. When browsing properties, buyers can look for mentions of energy-efficient certifications or photos showing solar panels. It's also wise to ask questions like, "What is the average monthly electricity bill for this type of home?" to understand the potential savings.
Eco-friendly and sustainable materials are becoming necessary for buyers looking to create a healthier and more environmentally conscious living space. Recycled timber reduces the need for new wood, while non-toxic paints help keep indoor air cleaner. On the other hand, terrazzo flooring - which contains no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and can last up to 40 years - is another popular choice for those seeking longevity and indoor air quality.
These sustainable materials create a healthier indoor environment and help reduce the home's overall carbon footprint. Buyers should look for mentions of eco-friendly materials or green certifications in listings. It's also wise to ask realtors, "What materials were used in the home's construction?" to know the home's environmental impact.
Eco-friendly landscaping features like native plants and permeable paving support local ecosystems and conserve water. Native plants are well-adapted to the local climate. They also require less water and provide habitat for native wildlife. Meanwhile, permeable paving allows rainwater to filter through the ground to reduce runoff and help recharge groundwater supplies.
These factors lower maintenance costs by reducing the need for irrigation and chemical treatments. Buyers can spot these features in property listings by looking for terms like "native landscaping," "rainwater management" or "green roof." It's also helpful to ask, "How is the landscaping designed to minimise environmental impact?" to gain insight into the property's sustainability efforts.
Smart home technologies like thermostats, lighting and energy-monitoring systems enhance a home's sustainability. These tools allow homeowners to remotely control heating, cooling and lighting, ensuring energy is used only when needed. In 2022, 48% of new houses and apartments in New Zealand featured smart heating systems, which reflects the growing popularity of these technologies.
Smart homes allow real-time energy management and adjustments to lower use and reduce the home's environmental footprint. Buyers can often identify these features in property listings through mentions of "smart home technology" or "energy-efficient systems." It's wise to ask questions like, "What smart home systems are installed?" and, "Can these systems be customised for greater energy savings?" to maximise the home's potential for efficiency.
Potential buyers should take the initiative to ask or research sustainable features to understand the benefits and efficiency of each option. Investing in a sustainable home supports the environment and offers long-term savings and increased property value.
About the Author: Evelyn Long is the Editor-in-Chief of Renovated Magazine and a writer passionate about sharing real estate tips with aspiring homeowners around the world. She regularly contributes to sites like the National Association of Realtors and Allioo.
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