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Corcoran Legends
Rob Lowenthal, Corcoran LegendsPhone: (914) 450-8120
Email: [email protected]

A Beginner's Guide to Eco Homes

by Rob Lowenthal 06/04/2021

Photo by Cats Coming from Pexels

There is a lot of talk these days about eco homes, but it's important to remember that there's no one-size-fits-all approach to creating an eco home. An eco home does not have to have a specific design style or meet certain qualifications in order to be designated as such. Rather, an eco home is more of a concept. It's the idea of building a home that allows people to work toward achieving their personal sustainability goals.

What is an Eco Home?

Eco homes are defined as a residence that was designed in order to minimize its impact on the environment. Eco homes may be referred to as sustainable homes, green homes or environmentally-friendly properties. In some cases, a home is considered an eco home because it was designed with sustainability in mind and built with responsible materials. In other cases, a home is labeled as an eco home because upgrades have been made in order to make it an efficient property that results in minimal waste of resources.

Common Features in Eco Homes

There is no set criteria for an eco home, however, many of these homes have similar features. These are the most common features that can be found in an eco home:

  • Large windows that allow for plenty of natural light.
  • Extra insulation to improve the efficiency of the home's HVAC unit.
  • Solar panels to take advantage of opportunities to utilize renewable solar energy.
  • Low-flow toilets to conserve water.
  • Energy-efficient appliances to reduce the amount of energy used in the home.

When it comes to designing an eco home, you have the flexibility to include the features that work best for your personal goals and lifestyle needs.

Are Eco Homes Expensive to Build?

Many people shy away from the idea of creating an eco home because they think it will come with a hefty price tag. While some eco-friendly amenities are more expensive initially, it's important to remember that many of these efforts will result in long-term cost savings. In addition, you have the freedom to select the sustainable features that fit within your budget. You do not have to have a luxury-sized budget in order to enjoy the benefits of an eco home. You can make a plan that works for you, and begin taking small steps toward living a more sustainable lifestyle.

Benefits of Investing in an Eco Home

In addition to having a positive impact on the environment, there are many other benefits associated with living in an eco home. Here are a few that you may enjoy:

  • Your eco home may require less maintenance than a traditional home. Sustainable building materials are notoriously durable, and often reduce the need for short-term repairs and maintenance.
  • Your property value may increase. Eco homes are in high demand, so the investments that you make now in sustainability will pay off in the long-term.

Remember that an eco home does not necessarily have to be a new construction property. You also can transform an existing home into an eco home by making small adjustments or investing in major upgrades. Regardless of whether you build a new home or update your current property, you will find that it's very rewarding to live in an eco home.

About the Author
Author

Rob Lowenthal

“I sell your home like it's mine”

A licensed real estate salesperson since 2016, Rob is affiliated with the Briarcliff Manor office of Corcoran Legends Realty. He serves buyers, sellers, renters, in Westchester, Rockland, and Putnam counties. Rob, a native of New York and Westchester County for most of his life, brings an extensive local knowledge of both residential and commercial properties to the table. His experience includes a wide range of property types – single-family, multi-family, condos and mixed use. “Hard to sell” properties is where Rob really excels. “There’s no problem that cannot be solved.”

Rob is certified for many different disciplines in real estate. Cartus Relocation Network Agent, AARP Agent, National Tenants Network (NTN) Agent, Green certified and Pricing Strategies Master. In addition, Rob has completed the Leader’s Edge Advanced training to better serve his clients. Rob has been both associate of the month and top closed dollar agent.

When you work with Rob, you get the feeling you’re his only client. Numbers don’t count, you do. Clients always come first. Each transaction is handled as if it were his own home. Rob strives to make the process as seamless as possible and takes care of all the details, no matter how small. His clients rave about his above-and-beyond service and prompt informative communication. Rob is easy going, friendly, and patient. However he can be a determined and aggressive negotiator when the need arises.

When not out actively working on behalf of his clients, Rob spends time with his wife and two teenage daughters. A devoted supporter of community he sits on several local boards and volunteers for numerous locale nonprofit organizations. He enjoys cycling, hiking, kayaking and winter skiing.

May your price be right, and your sale be swift!”