The Tribune

SUPERGREEN SOLUTIONS

By Joshua key

Have you ever wanted to make your home more valuable, while paying less to own it? Homeowners often undertake improvement projects with that in mind. While some home improvements can greatly increase property values, others do little to impact them. For example, remodelling a kitchen is thought of as a home improvement with a good return on investment. On the other hand, a swimming pool may upgrade the quality of life, but does little for a home’s resale value because of the additional costs associated with pool maintenance. Yikes.

Perhaps the easiest way to increase your property value, while lowering upkeep costs, is to tackle the electricity bill. The US Department of Housing and Urban Development says home values rise an average of $20 for every $1 reduction in annual electricity bills. This means saving $1,000 per year in electricity costs can increase your home value by $20,000. Since it also lowers your energy bill now, a g’reen home’ improvement project is a ‘yes please, sign me up now’ no-brainer.

Which ‘green home’ improvement project should you start? For example, is a solar air conditioner the best option for you? Would upgrading to LED lighting save you money faster? Is your water heater a major drain on your pocket? Do you need better energy management so your cooling systems cost less to run? Or would you prefer the health benefits that come from cleaner water and air? What about something else altogether? With so many ways to make your home or business greener, you can see why enlisting the services of a professional is a good idea.

Fortunately, green projects are flexible enough to match your budget and your site. As Bahamians, services are available to help us with our homes and businesses now. All you have to decide is when you want to start.

Do you think you will ever want to sell your home? If you answered ‘Nah’, then a green home improvement project lowers your upkeep costs and frees cash up for you today. And if you ever do decide to sell your home, it gives you a more valuable property, so you end up with more dollars in your pocket.

• NB: Joshua Key is general manager for SuperGreen Solutions Bahamas, located on Wulff Road next to FYP. SuperGreen Solutions is an advisor, supplier and installer of domestic and commercial energy efficient solutions.