$aving Green

 One Stop Shopping-Design and Build                                 The current rate to design a 2000 square foot home can range for 800 dollars to 5000 dollars. This cost is incurred prior to choosing a builder. Due to the fact that we are a design/build firm, your fee for a custom home plan will be refunded to you upon execution of a building contract. In other words, more money in your pocket!                   

The Benefits of Energy Efficiency                                      A home built to be five-star qualified through Energy Star is guaranteed to be 30% more energy efficient than conventionally built homes. Compared with standard homes, Energy Star qualified homes use substantially less energy for heating, cooling, and water heating-delivering $200 to $400 in annual savings. Over the average 7 to 8 years you may live in your home, this adds up to thousands of dollars saved on utility bills. Additional savings on maintenance can also be substantial. Financing your home purchase using an energy efficient mortgage can also lead to savings.

Energy Efficient Mortgages
Although surprising to most people, energy efficient mortgages (EEM's) have been around since the 80's. Energy efficiency increases the number of qualified homebuyers and increases the buyers' purchasing power. EEM's are available to homebuyers when they are building or buying new, energy efficient homes, as well as buyers that are purchasing existing homes and making improvements towards energy efficiency. An EEM allows the homebuyer to qualify for a larger mortgage because of the savings that will come from reduced energy expenses. Energy efficient houses cost less to operate, saving money from the day you move in.

Home Financing Examples                                                 Option A - Conventionally built home

$1000	monthly mortgage payment
$ 300	monthly energy bills
$1350	total

Option B - Green built home

$1100	monthly mortgage payment
$ 75	monthly energy bills
$1175	total

The total savings with Option B is $175 per month, or $2100 each year!

Please note: this is only an example. Monthly savings will vary (positively or negatively) depending on what energy efficient aspects are incorporated into your new home

Green Lenders
Call your bank or loan officer to see if they offer an EEM mortgage. Or visit one of these EEM lending experts:

Countrywide Financial                                                 Indigo Financial