Builders around the country are supplying new construction home inventory in a market that desperately needs new homes. At the same time, home buyers are more aware than ever of energy savings. In fact, the National Association of Realtors found that over 79% of buyers want energy-efficient features like all energy-star appliances, triple pane windows, and other energy-saving components in their homes.

By supplying the real estate market with more energy-efficient houses, builders can soften the housing shortage and offer homes with less of a carbon footprint. How can home builders ensure new construction dwellings use less energy to supply what the market requires?

How to Build More New Construction Energy-Efficient Homes

To create more energy-efficient homes, builders can use eco-friendly building materials and energy-conscious elements during the building process. What other things can builders do to make homeowners confident that their new construction home promises the lowest energy bills possible? Here are some examples:

  • Using excellent insulation for exterior walls along with modern insulated siding.
  • Installing cool roofs to reflect the sun’s heat plus solar panels.
  • Installing air-sealing windows, doors, vents, and ductwork. By preventing as much air leakage as possible, future homes will waste less energy.
  • Prevent heat transfer through UV rays by installing low-E windows, which block most heat from sunlight.
  • Install insulation with high r-value in attics, foundations, and crawl spaces.
  • Install an energy-efficient heat pump that is at least 14 SEER with a programmable thermostat to reduce the energy costs of the heating and cooling system.
  • Install energy-saving water heating systems like a tankless water heater to save on the cost of heating water quickly.
  • Reduce water usage with high-efficiency toilets and low-flow faucets. These use less water than the traditional 1.6-gallon toilet or higher-flow faucets. These countermeasures can reduce water consumption by half when used in an entire house.

On top of installing significant energy savers like choosing superior HVAC systems, you can also do small things to make a more energy-efficient building. Choosing energy-efficient lighting fixtures and using natural light to reduce the need for interior lighting during the day can be additional ways to thrill your future homebuyer.

Buying a new construction home comes with a lot of consideration. Making the most cost-effective choices without skimping on quality is key for both you and prospective buyers. These best practices are just a few examples of what builders can do to make their next project the most energy-efficient home in their listings to date.