As a custom green builder, I know for a fact that the savings of living in a green custom home can be considerable.  Just how considerable was pointed out in an article I recently read that explored the connection between green houses and mortgages.

The article was based on a new study of 71,000 home loans nationwide made between 2002 and 2012. The research showed mortgages on homes with Energy Star certifications (like the green custom houses we build) were 32% less likely to default than those on homes with no energy improvements. The researchers controlled for house size, income levels, credit scores and other factors.

I’ve been doing custom green building for some time now, so these findings don’t surprise me. It’s just common sense that if you’re saving money on your utility bills you simply have more money you can put toward your mortgage than neighbors whose homes cost more to run.

The article even goes on to say that since living in a green, energy efficient home lowers the risk that borrowers will default on a mortgage means they should enjoy a lower rate from lenders. I think that makes perfect sense, but it’s probably not going to fly any time soon.  In the meantime, I think we can be happy with this new proof about the ongoing savings – and peace of mind – of living in a green custom home.  Also, remember that a green custom house can be built in the size, style, and budget that are right for you.  To see examples of Energy Star green custom homes we’ve built, visit our photo gallery.

As a green custom home builder, we’re often asked how custom green building differs from traditional home building – and how green custom homes themselves are different.

The best way to illustrate what’s different about building a green custom house is to take you through a very basic version of the checklist we use as part of our own approach to custom green building.

1. Energy and water conservation: This is often homeowner’s primary motivation for choosing a green custom home builder. So, in planning the home, we look at every possible avenue for saving energy and water. From designing in Energy Star appliances and highly efficient low-flow fixtures, to insulation, efficient lighting and use of renewal energy such as solar power or geothermal heating and cooling.
2. Location: When we look at the site for the home, we evaluate sustainability. For example, will the house be near existing infrastructure (roads, sewer, etc.)? The closer it is to existing infrastructure, the lower its impact on the environment – and that’s an important aspect of building a green custom home.
3. Green building materials. This means we look for materials that are recycled, renewable, and local. In terms of recycled materials, we talk with homeowners about a variety of options, including recycled glass or architectural elements salvaged from other projects that can be used in their own green custom house. For flooring, we might recommend renewable resources such as bamboo or cork – but not if the cost and carbon footprint of transporting these materials is greater than using more locally produced options. Note that the increasing popularity and availability of green products is expanding our design options while giving homeowners price points comparable to non-green products.
4. Indoor health and comfort. As custom green builders, we’re always conscious of avoiding building materials and products that are unhealthy for homeowners. Paint, carpet, and even some wallboard and cabinets can give off toxic gases. In addition, pay careful attention to proper ventilation and a right-sized – properly sealed — heating and cooling system. This ensures good indoor air quality and the right balance of moisture, and it eliminates hot and cold spots that can make homes uncomfortable. Finally, green custom homes include rooms with plenty of natural light – a feature that not only saves energy, but creates a brighter “mood” in the home.

Again, this is just a very simplified way to talk about the differences between a green custom home and a traditional custom home. The point, however, is that there is a difference – one that is important for the homeowner’s enjoyment of the home, energy bill, and role in living more gently on the planet.

Visit our site to find more information about our custom green home building services!