> I generally write about energy efficiency in homes. I encourage everyone to get energy audits and do what they can to tighten up their homes to reduce air leakage and lower energy use and utility bills. Right now, though, it may not be economically feasible to replace windows, insulate and add thermal mass. There is plenty you can do within the home to make it and your life greener, though. Find out with this helpful resource, EWG’s Healthy Home Checklist.
> As a Realtor@ in Taos, I have noticed that the popular and affordable price range for homes dropping. Instead of searching for the $350,000-400,000 home, they now want to spend $200,000-250,000. The prices of the more expensive homes have come down some, but not that far. The lower priced home is the new demand, so they are coming on the market with more frequency. Home values are changing around the country.
> I will say this again: Lenders, appraisers and builders have to be on the same page in order to get energy efficient homes and remodels financed and perhaps rewarded. New legislation, the GREEN Act (Green Resources for Energy Efficient Neighborhoods), HR 2336, supports this and is going to the House for a vote. Please contact your reps in support of HR 2336!
> There is nothing like a competition to get people to do their best, learn new ways and change! The EPA is hosting the National Building Competition, which follows the format of the tv show, The Biggest Loser, a competition to lose weight. Fourteen commercial buildings will strive to reduce waste and energy consumption in 180 days. Energy consumption will be tracked and improvements made. Winners will be announced in October. I am SO looking forward to this! I hope it sets an example and shows others what can be done in their own commercial or residential buildings.
> It wouldn’t be a recap without a link to ONE green home! I love recycling, and I love prefab. This home is both. Actually, it is a studio, and I think it is a piece of art! Recycled materials can be put together in a creative, pleasing, and, of course, functional way. I hope this gives you some ideas for your own home.
