How do I promote the energy efficiency of my home when selling it?
Energy efficiency improvements are not as flashy as kitchen or bathroom renovations or a new coat of paint, which usually top the list of best renovations for home value improvement at time of sale. That being said, third-party energy rating or certification systems do help homes sell for a premium.
If you have completed an EnerGuide home evaluation be sure to inform your REALTOR® so that potential buyers can see your home’s EnerGuide rating and label and learn about the energy efficient features of your home, such as:
- Insulation levels
- Heating and cooling systems
- Windows and doors
- Water heating systems
- Appliances
- Lighting
- Ventilation
- Draftproofing
If you haven’t completed an EnerGuide home evaluation, consider having one done by a program-qualified energy advisor. The EnerGuide label can be an important selling point for prospective buyers as it lets them assess the home’s energy performance and see how it might affect their utility bills. Ensure that you have a post-upgrade energy evaluation to verify your upgraded EnerGuide rating and include this on the MLS listing.
Benefits of the EnerGuide Rating Service for REALTORS®
As interest in energy efficiency upgrades increases, there is an increased demand for REALTORS® to have an understanding of the value of the EnerGuide rating system. This is an opportunity for real estate agents to build their brand and differentiate themselves amongst REALTORS. Understanding the energy efficient features of a home elevates conversations with prospective buyers beyond the home’s aesthetic.
The energy performance improvements made to a home and an EnerGuide label to prove it can be an important selling point to prospective buyers. It may show the home’s performance has been improved which in turn reduces the utility costs for any future occupants. An EnerGuide label is an official record of the home’s energy performance, and has potential to increase building value, resulting in a potentially faster sale at a potentially higher price.
Prior to listing, learn about any upgrades made to the home:
- Has your client had an EnerGuide Home Evaluation done? Did they take steps in improving the energy efficiency of their home? Add their EnerGuide rating to the listing!
- Give buyers what they want. An improved EnerGuide rating can help your clients improve their comfort, save money on energy bills, and reduce their environmental impact.
- Find out what these improvements mean. Many energy efficiency upgrades can translate into benefits for the next homeowner.
The benefits of an EnerGuide label go beyond utility costs and energy savings. High-performing homes offer quality of life benefits that buyers can emotionally connect to. For example, energy efficiency upgrades can improve the overall comfort of the home, including noise reduction, temperature regulation, and indoor air quality. These improvements can be important selling or purchasing features for a home.
Did you see a building science or energy efficiency term you did not understand? Contact our energy advisor for free suggestions.