If you want to minimize your utilities bills in your next home, it can pay to take the time to find a home that is energy-efficient. Below are some recommendations for what to look for when you are shopping.

1. Well-sealed doors and windows. Make sure the doors and windows of the home you are thinking of purchasing are well-sealed. Ideally, the windows should feature a multi-pane design.
2. Insulation. Check for high R-value insulation. Insulation with a high R rating will do a great job maintaining consistent interior temperatures throughout the year.
3. Efficient materials and layout. Pay attention to how the floor plan of a home as well as the construction of the attic and roof will impact temperature regulation. A home with an energy-efficient layout and materials may require substantially less heating or cooling to maintain a comfortable temperature.
4. Energy-efficient appliances. If the home will include appliances like HVAC, a water heater, a thermostat, and kitchen appliances, check whether they are energy-efficient. If there are solar panels wired in, that is another big plus.
5. Certification. There are certifications you can check for when you are shopping for an energy-efficient home. Look for the EPA ENERGY STAR® certification, the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, or the National Green Building Standard (NGBS). While you can find energy-efficient homes that are not certified, certification is good to have, since it tells you that the home meets the minimum requirements to qualify.

Grandview Lending Makes Home Buying Easy

At Grandview, we make the mortgage process fast and easy. Let us concentrate on your mortgage application, so you can spend your time finding the energy-efficient home of your dreams. We can help you buy a home in Indianapolis or anywhere in Indiana. Please call (317) 255-0062 to begin.