With a growing awareness of our impact on the environment, for some, sustainability has become a top priority in all aspects of life—including investing in sustainable real estate. The trend of eco-friendly homes, also known as green homes, is on the rise as more and more homeowners aim to reduce their carbon footprint and adopt a more sustainable lifestyle. So, let’s talk about the advantages of green homes, how they are designed and built, some common features, and financing options available in Ontario.

What is the benefit of owning a green home?

Green homes provide plenty of benefits that go beyond reducing your environmental impact. These homes are designed to be energy-efficient, resulting in lower utility bills and long-term savings. Given that energy costs are relatively high in Ontario, this feature is particularly valuable. Green homes use non-toxic building materials, which can enhance indoor air quality and decrease the risk of respiratory issues. They also take particular advantage of natural light and ventilation, creating a comfortable living space which means less need for artificial lighting and air conditioning.

As being kind to the environment becomes increasingly essential, homes with eco-friendly features are likely to be in high demand and command a premium price. Investing in sustainable real estate now, can add to the value of your property as the market evolves.

How are green homes designed and built?

Green homes are built and designed with sustainability at the forefront. They primarily use materials that are renewable or recycled, and they’re designed to optimize energy efficiency. Builders may use techniques such as “passive solar design”, which harnesses natural sunlight and heat to warm the home during winter and shading to keep the home cool in the summer. The size of the home and rooms are also important factors, and careful attention is paid to how every square foot is used.

In Ontario’s variable climate, there is typically a heavy focus on the quality of insulation to keep interior temperatures regulated and reduce the amount of heat loss. Insulated windows and doors are also important for this.

Read more blogs about homeownership in Halton Hills, Georgetown, and the surrounding area right here:

One of the biggest differences in a green home compared to a conventionally built home is the roofing! Usually, there isn’t much more thought put into the roof of your home than the colour of the shingles. But green homes take into account that the materials used in your roofing can have a major impact on energy efficiency. Green homes will likely opt for products that reflect the sun’s energy away from the roof, hold heat for less time, and cool faster at night. Solar panels and rooftop gardens are other options commonly considered in the design of a green home.

What features are commonly found in green homes?

Green homes come with a variety of sustainable features, such as solar panels that can generate electricity for the home, reducing the need for grid electricity. Ontario is also home to several government programs and incentives for investing in capturing solar energy, such as the Solar Tax Credit.

Rainwater harvesting is another eco-friendly feature that involves collecting rainwater for use in irrigation and other non-potable purposes, reducing the need for municipal water. If someone in your family is an avid gardener, having a renewable water source is essential!

Other features include energy-efficient appliances that consume less energy than traditional appliances, reducing your energy bills. Low-flow toilets and faucets are also prevalent in eco-friendly homes, reducing water usage and lowering your water bills. Ontario provides a variety of water conservation programs and incentives, such as Halton Region’s Water-Efficient Toilet Rebate Program.

Efficient heating and cooling systems can significantly reduce energy usage and costs. Geothermal heating, for example, is one of the most eco-friendly methods in that it moves existing heat instead of creating it through combustion.

Are there any special green home financing options available in Ontario?

If you’re considering purchasing, building, or upgrading, there are quite a few federal and provincial programs in Ontario that offer incentives for eco-friendly homes. In addition to those already mentioned here are a few more:

Owning a green home offers so many advantages, from lower energy bills to improved indoor air quality. With the increasing demand for sustainable living, eco-friendly homes are becoming increasingly popular in Ontario, and with the various incentives and financing options available, they are becoming more accessible to homeowners and homebuyers without breaking the bank. In fact, the long-term savings from reduced energy bills can offset the initial investment in an eco-friendly home, making sustainable real estate a practical investment.

If you have questions about retrofitting your current home to be more eco-friendly, or are considering buying or building a new green home, give us a call at 905-873-9944, or info@lisahartsink.com!