Cindy's Blog

Started in 1970, Earth Day has always been a day to really pay a bit more attention to the earth, and do a little (hopefully more than just a little) more for the earth that gives us so much.

How does that really relate to real estate, you might ask? Well, the answer is- in a number of ways. One of the biggest ways is in the way we use our energy- from both an efficiency and a conservation standpoint.

When you're buying a new home, it's always a good idea to pay attention to things like the utility bills of the current owners, and check out what sort of systems they have. Not just with an eye to your pocketbook, and when they may need to be repaired or replaced, but also with a goal in mind of reducing your carbon footprint. (Although I fear that phrase is somewhat overused now).

The estimated life of a heat pump is around 15 years, give or take a few. But perhaps more importantly than just the replacement cost, look at the other costs associated with keeping that unit. Probably, if it's over 10 years old or so, it's going to be much less energy efficient, and have a much larger negative impact on the environment than a newer, Energy Star rated unit. Oh, yeah, and it's going to save you money on your heating and cooling bills. No question about it.

The same holds true with most of those other appliances. Whether or not you're buying or selling, unless you're a caterer, or perhaps a hunter (?) you probably don't need that extra fridge or freezer that's sucking juice off the power grid. It's most likely the one your new one replaced, so even if you have a brand spanking new Energy Star fridge in the kitchen, some of that good mojo is going to be canceled out by the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang model in the garage... Think about it.

I'll try to be back later, but definitely tomorrow, and in the meantime, have a lovely Earth Day (or what's left of it) and try making a resolution for yourself, your office, or your family- here are some suggestions

Use less power- attach your electronics to a power strip and turn it off when not in use.

Use less fuel- plan your trips so you're not backtracking and driving all over town every day.

Make less trash- Recycling is awesome, and very necessary, but wouldn't it be great if we paid attention to the amount of packaging things had and avoided those with too much. Trust me, both the garbage and recycling workers would appreciate it, as will the earth.

There are many, many others- what can you think of??