Buying a country home tips for eco-conscious home buyers, USA rural property buying, Buy an American countryside house

Buying a Country Home: 5 Tips for Eco-Conscious Home Buyers

February 23, 2024

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Sustainability is not just a fad or passing trend for home buyers. It is a mindset most Americans want to adopt for good as an endeavor to do their bit for the planet and future generations. According to statistics, the demand for green single-family housing buildings in the US is thriving. It is projected to reach $159.1 billion in 2024, a significant increase from $138.74 billion in 2023.

Buying a country home is an excellent idea for eco-conscious buyers because these properties are inherently sustainable in most cases. They are ideal if you want to downsize, adopt a minimalist lifestyle, or experience the joy of rural living. You can live away from the hustle and bustle of the city and achieve your sustainability goals effortlessly.

In this article, we will share a few practical tips for eco-conscious buyers looking for a dream countryside retreat.

Pick Your Location Wisely

Sustainability begins with the location of your home, so you must pick it wisely. There is more than one way it can affect your environmental impact. For example, you should avoid properties that are inaccessible or too far from amenities. Long car rides to buy groceries or visit your friends can contribute to your carbon footprint.

When buying a rural property, look for one situated on land that has not been heavily developed. Also, consider proximity to natural resources such as agricultural land, forests, and water bodies. A location with existing infrastructure minimizes the need for additional construction, preserving ecosystems and natural habitats.

Consider Building Materials

An eco-friendly country home is built or renovated with natural building materials that do not deplete the resources. For example, reclaimed wood, cork, and bamboo are renewable and eco-friendly. Additionally, they have lower embodied energy compared to traditional building materials such as steel and concrete.

Local sourcing is another factor you should consider while evaluating the construction and renovation materials. The ones that come from nearby have minimal carbon impact caused by transportation. Fortunately, most country homes are built using natural and locally sourced materials, making it easy to find a property according to your mindset.

Prioritize Sustainable Land Use

Another great thing about choosing a country property is that you get a chance to buy a home with acreage. Real estate prices are relatively lower in these areas. In 2023, US home affordability hit the worst since 1984, making it harder to own properties in prime locations. Consider looking for a countryside property because you can afford a bigger house on the same budget.

At this point, assess how the land has been utilized. According to Land Broker Co-op, a home with acreage is an ideal investment for people who love gardening. Look for properties with space for gardening or composting. It offers the potential for organic farming, promoting self-sufficiency and healthy living. You can even create a backyard oasis for relaxed evenings and get-togethers.

Evaluate Energy Efficiency

After checking the location and land use, consider the home’s energy efficiency to ensure sustainability. Perhaps the energy consumption of a house contributes the most to its environmental footprint. Additionally, it burdens your wallet, considering the rising energy prices in the US. In 2022, prices surged by 10.7% over the previous year, the highest growth since the beginning of the century.

Seek properties with features such as proper insulation, solar panels, and energy-efficient appliances. You may need to invest a little more in such properties, but they pay back with extensive savings in energy bills over time. Moreover, you need not rely on non-renewable energy sources to run your appliances.

Look for Water Conservation

Energy is not the only resource eco-conscious home buyers should consider. Water conservation is equally critical because the water crisis is not far ahead for Americans. ABC News reports that parts of the country are already facing it, making it necessary to pay more attention to conserving as much water as possible.

Country homes often rely on wells or other natural water sources. As a buyer, you should prioritize properties with efficient water systems such as low-flow fixtures, rainwater harvesting, and greywater recycling. Besides conservation, check the quality of water sources to ensure the well-being of your family.

In conclusion, the decision to buy a country home is the first step toward a sustainable life. While these properties are inherently eco-friendly, you must consider these factors to ensure that your dream home aligns with your values of sustainability and environmental responsibility. A little extra effort and investment sets you up for a guilt-free, minimal-impact lifestyle.

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