MY STARTING PLACE
The 4 steps to getting a greener home that has lower utility costs and increased home value
  1. Get an energy assessment from a MO-certified energy audit company. The energy assessors conduct a Building Performance Inspection (BPI) which can include a blower door test (measure hidden leaks), infrared scan (find exactly where the hidden leaks are located), HVAC combustion and leakage test, basic safety inspection and a visual inspection of the home. This test usually only costs a few hundred dollars. The energy assessor’s recommendation is a guide to the improvements you can make to start saving money.

  2. Remediation: The fixes are prioritized from the least costly, most beneficial and efficient upgrades you can make to your house. These repairs usually focuses on lighting, insulation and caulking. Much of the work may be done by the homeowner. The assessor can also recommend trades people in your area who can execute exactly the repairs needed. There may be Energy Star suggestions that can take energy improvements to a whole new level. The goal is to qualify you for lower utilities, energy purchase rebates and tax incentives to help pay for it all.

  3. Reinspection of house by energy assessor to verify that remediation work was done properly.

  4. Apply for tax credits and utility rebates.

Talk to your REALTOR, they are the housing professionals.


My Green Toolkit —
Energy Assessor Qualifications:
  • Missouri Department of Natural Resources accredited
  • Home Performance with Energy Star registration (HPE)
  • BPI assessment testing model (includes blower door, combustion, infrared tests); HERS rating also available
  • Insured
  • Company in good standing
  • References provided upon request
 

A recent housing study
from Atlanta, GA reveals
that green homes sell
40% faster, for 5% more
and that green was
sought by 36% +
of home buyers.

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