Nowadays, the emphasis on building green homes is gaining in popularity, thanks to the increasing awareness of many individuals about the imperative need to lessen our carbon footprints even while we enjoy our dream homes.  This is a welcome change in home ownership mindset that many real estate developers and allied professionals have taken to heart by building green communities.

If you are in the market for a new home, you will do well to look into green communities that are on the rise.  You will be investing in a comfortable home, a sustainable environment and on a bright future for your children.

Features of a Green Community

So many community developers use the tactic known as green washing to attract more and more homeowners in investing their money in the suburbs.  Some, if not all, will resort to half-truths and blatant lies to achieve their own ends - at your expense, of course.

To avoid from becoming victim to such an unscrupulous practice in real estate development, you should look for the following features in a green community:

* It should have earned the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, which is the most recognized standard in green community design, as well as other federal and state certifications attesting to its compliance with environmental laws.

* The homes are built using recycled materials, sustainable wood products and other construction supplies like insulation that have been proven to be eco-friendly.  The appliances inside the home, if any, must have the Energy Star label or its equivalent.

* The community is built such that there is minimal impact on the existing environment.  Thus, you should see signs of organic landscaping, if you have the eye for it, as well as underground cables to lessen impact on the tree canopy.

* Renewable energy sources like wind and solar powers are harnessed in the homes and in the community facilities.  Think along the lines of solar heaters, solar lights and wind turbines.

* Recycling facilities in the homes and in the community are present.  A good example is the presence of rainwater collection and distribution system for use in toilets, lawns and community buildings.

* Nearby parks, wooded areas and bicycle paths encourage residents to take a walk or ride a bike instead of using their cars. It helps to have schools and other community facilities within walking distance.

Take note that these are general guidelines, with many communities actually exceeding the basic standards of a green community.

Building a Green Home

Now, if you live in a community that is not-so-green in orientation, you can still do something to make your home as green as possible.  You may even secure a LEED certification from the US Green Building Council and other green certifications, which will definitely increase the value of your home in many ways.

It will be a rewarding journey to make your home as eco-friendly as possible, from your appliances to the insulation to the energy sources.  You will spend money but the benefits will be well worth the investments, whether you choose to stay in your green home or sell it.

Being green starting from your home is an easy thing to do.  You will enjoy the benefits of a clean, beautiful home that exists in harmony with nature with all the necessary material comforts.