The rise of eco-friendly homes
Category Property News
Homebuyers in Cape Town are increasingly seeking sustainable homes with eco-friendly features. With eco-friendly features incorporated into their design, these homes help homeowners reduce dependence on external resources and minimise environmental impact.
As load shedding causes more frequent blackouts in South Africa, more people seek greener alternatives. Homebuyers are placing increasing importance on sustainable living, actively searching for properties that align with their eco-conscious lifestyle choices.
Reasons for the rise in eco-friendly homes
Several factors have led to the rise in eco-friendly houses. For starters, increased environmental awareness and concern have prompted homeowners to emphasise sustainable living. Secondly, as the price of electricity continues to rise, many residents are seeking ways to reduce their utility costs.
Also, when you consider the previous droughts in 2015 and 2018, where precipitation levels declined, rainwater collection is a viable remedy when there's no water supply. Choosing a house with all those features can benefit homebuyers in the long run.
Eco-friendly home features to look for
Designed to be environmentally sustainable, energy-efficient, and have a minimal environmental impact, eco-friendly homes stand out for their eco-conscious features. Solar panels prominently displayed on the property's exterior leverage the sun's abundant energy, resulting in significant utility savings and a reduced environmental impact. As a result, homeowners save money and live more sustainably.
Most homes have LED lights, and energy-saving equipment is utilised throughout the home to enhance energy efficiency and minimise waste. Insulation and windows with high-performance ratings assist in maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature year-round. Rainwater harvesting systems collect and store precipitation for non-drinking applications, typically as an alternative to the municipal water supply.
A sustainable house is also usually built with energy efficiency in mind, using insulation, energy-efficient appliances, and innovative home technology. The features are not only energy-saving, but they also make living in a home more accessible and comfortable.
Here are a few tips to help you make your own home more eco-friendly:
- Make the transition to LED lighting
Switching to LED is a simple way to make a big difference in your home's energy efficiency. The light bulbs consume less electricity and cost less than incandescent bulbs. LEDs are more cost-effective long-term since they last longer and use less energy.
- If at all possible, reuse
Reducing the amount you buy and increasing the amount you reuse are great methods to help the environment around your home. While it's admirable to reduce waste by recycling, finding a second purpose for an item before giving up on it entirely is essential.
Consider the items you routinely discard and how you could put them to use better. For example: Putting away plastic bags to use as liners for mini bins.
- Integrate solar panels into your home
Today's environmentally conscious homes must have solar panels. Compared to traditional grid electricity, solar panels offer a clean, renewable source of electricity, significantly reducing carbon emissions.
- Embrace rainwater harvesting systems
Rainwater collected by these systems can be used for landscaping, toilet flushing, and laundry. It is beneficial for homeowners to conserve freshwater to reduce their water bills and conserve natural resources.
- Use sustainable materials
When renovating or remodelling your home, choose environmentally friendly materials. Look for LEED or certified eco-friendly certifications to ensure the materials meet sustainability standards.
With a strong interest in eco-friendly housing, Cape Town's real estate market caters to the demand by offering a variety of residences. These properties prioritise sustainability and provide residents with a high quality of living and an array of great amenities. Browse DG Properties' property listings to find the best living locations. Get in touch with our property practitioners today to find the right property that aligns with your lifestyle.
Author: Dogon Group Properties