As technology and awareness advances, so do the sustainable design options for real estate. Homeowners no longer just want to use sustainable materials, they also want to make sure their home is a “smart” home. This means using technology along with innovative building materials in the home to make sure it is comfortable and green all at the same time.

There are several sustainable design options out there that homeowners can choose from. Take a look at the options below and see what design trends are shaping the real estate industry today!

1. Energy Efficient HVAC System

For any home, an HVAC system is a necessity. With technological upgrades, it is now easier than ever to get an energy efficient HVAC system in a home. If you have a client who is trying to sell their home with an outdated HVAC system, chances are potential buyers will look elsewhere. Updating an HVAC system when trying to sell a home will help pull in interested buyers. The HVAC is made to help control the environmental conditions throughout the house by heating and cooling the home year round. If the HVAC unit is outdated, chances are new owners will spend more money each year because they are consuming more energy to make it function. However, a new energy efficient HVAC unit could help potential buyers save a ton on their energy bills each year, making the home more appealing.

2. Insulated Concrete Forms

Traditional wood-frame construction is becoming less and less popular today. Many builders are switching to alternative options that can withstand natural disasters and create a more energy efficient home. Insulated concrete forms or ICF for example, are fire resistant, impact resistant, energy-efficient, and low maintenance. If you have a client looking for a home that is sustainable, mention an ICF house plan. An ICF home will give future homeowners 20 percent more energy savings, twice the strength and durability, and a 3 times quieter home.

3. Green Smart House Options

A smart home is a newer trend that everyone is interested in, especially up and coming millenial home buyers. This basically means a home is set up for owners to control different aspects such as the HVAC system and lighting. With smart houses, people can control the temperature when they’re not home. They can even see who is dropping packages off with a variety of camera setups. This smart home design is a great way to reduce the carbon footprint by using the HVAC system when occupants need to and not cooling or heating when everyone has left the home for the day. Smart home technology is continuing to grow and increase in popularity. Today, younger potential buyers are gravitating more towards a smart home with all the tech features.

These are just a few sustainable trends shaping real estate today. Be sure to stay up to date on all things related to technology and green home design as potential buyers are constantly trying to shift to a more energy efficient and up to date home.

About the Author:
Corey Tyner is the owner of Phoenix Fast Sell Home Buyers and Austin Fast Sell Home Buyers. He is one of the top real estate investors in Arizona with over a decade of experience. His work has been featured on Bigger Pockets, Real Estate Agent Magazine, and several other real estate investor publications.