Our homes and offices emit more CO2 into the atmosphere than any other source, including our vehicles. Constructing energy efficient homes and buildings is vital to reducing our effect on the planet. Below are a few important green terms and concepts:

GREEN REAL ESTATE AGENTS

Green Real Estate agents specialize in energy efficient homes. The Multiple Listing Service, or MLS, is what real estate agents use to browse available properties. The MLS has recently added an "Energy Star Certified" designation to certain listings on the MLS that allow buyers to identify energy-efficient homes at a glance. According to a recent study by the U.S. Green Building Council, homeowners and homebuyers are more inclined than ever to make green choices when they renovate or buy a home.

ENERGY EFFICIENT MORTGAGE

An energy efficient mortgage increases a buyer's borrowing power by adding the estimated energy savings to the borrower's income and incorporating the costs of energy improvements into the mortgage amount.

ENERGY STAR

Most of know about Energy Star appliances, but a entire home can have the Energy Star rating as well. Energy Star is an independent energy certification program run by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy. Energy efficient homes are not only better for the environment, they can also reduce or even eliminate certain bills.

GREENPOINT RATED

The Greenpoint Rating system is a rating of a new or existing home's green features by independent nonprofit organization Build It Green.

HERS INDEX

The HERS index, or Home Energy Rating System, is a home energy rating that involves an analysis of a home’s construction plans and onsite inspections. The lower the HERS index, the more energy efficient the home. The HERS score determines whether a home qualifies for an Energy Star certification.

THE FACTS

A 100% energy efficient home can be completely "off the grid", that is entirely free of energy bills savings thousands of dollars a year.