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A recent McGraw-Hill study indicated that green homeowners are more satisfied and believe that green homes are higher quality, easier to maintain, more efficient, and offer health benefits. Studies report that home buyers are willing to pay for these benefits when purchasing their homes. Being able to offer this kind of value and benefit can set you apart from other builders.Events and marketing opportunities done in partnership with local and national green building programs help to get the name of your company into the hands of consumers. Green building is a popular topic in the media, and builders associated with this initiative can take advantage of the media coverage and publicity that stem from this interest.IncentivesIncentives such as the federal Energy Efficient Builder Tax Credit are available to offset some of the cost of some green building upgrades.Lower CostsWhile there is often a cost when switching from traditional building practices and supplies to more environmentally-friendly ones, many green building practices result in using fewer materials and generating less waste, so costs can be minimized and offset. When green practices are incorporated as standard building practice, builders can take advantage of volume discount savings, and reduced labor costs, as the learning curve to implement and install different items is diffused.Advantages in the Entitlement ProcessSome green builders are taking advantage of fast-track permits and reduced permit fees in their jurisdictions. Other builders are finding they have access to land they wouldn’t have had access to otherwise.CredibilityA certified green home demonstrates to the buyer and to the community your commitment to the environment, the homeowner and the community. The third-party certification process means that it’s not just your word standing behind your product, but that you have the support and credibility of a national program as well.
To learn about green building certification, visit your regional HBA or visit the U.S. Green Building Council at U.S. Green Building Council. Source: NAHB
This blog entry was developed from the LMC Newsletter article library.
