Trying to attract more buyers? Simple green fixes may add buying incentive---from TheMLS.com

Simple green fixes may add buying incentive

Jul 15 2011 5:35PM

While many may feel like green energy costs an arm and a leg, there are some simple cost-effective ways to employ green technology and, in so doing, make a house more attractive on the real estate market. For example, painting a roof white may eliminate some cooling costs, according to FoxBusiness.

According to a study conducted by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory's Heat Island Group, buildings with white roofs require 40 percent less cooling energy than structures with black roofs, the source reports. A white elastomeric coating - a durable, waterproof blend of polymers - should do the trick. The product is inexpensive, and those with standard roofs may even be able to apply the coat themselves.

Low-flow shower heads are another simple fix that can reduce the amount of water used by a household, according to Dough Roller. These shower heads range in price from $5 to $50 and work by aerating water, which means that water pressure should not be affected even though less is being used.

Whatever energy-efficient changes a homeowner decides to make, the improvements should be shared with real estate agents, who can herald those aspects of the home