Most homeowners don’t plan on living in their first homes forever. Many know that their housing and spatial needs will change in the long run. There might not be enough room to accommodate more family members in your first home. But since starter houses tend to be cheaper, many people are inclined to buy one for the time being. If this sounds like you, then it only shows that a starter house is for you.
You may have no plans to live in your starter house forever, but you still want to make certain home improvements to make it suit your current tastes and need. What better way to renovate than to keep sustainability in mind? You get to enjoy more savings in the long run, plus sustainable homes are becoming increasingly desirable to today’s home buyers. Here are a few tips to help you renovate your starter house sustainably.
Invest in eco-friendly appliances, fittings, and systems
If one of your main goals is to replace the old fittings, systems, and appliances in the house, then go for those that use a considerably less amount of energy and water. They may cost more upfront, but you can save big once you receive your water and energy bills a month after the installation. If you are not sure how to install new appliances, especially the loo, or if you ever encounter leaky bathroom fixtures, don’t hesitate to call an emergency plumber into your home.
Did you know that according to a study, average UK homeowners spend at least £35 yearly for leaving appliances on standby? With eco-friendly appliances, you don’t need to work about having to pay such extra costs. Your starter home’s future buyers will also appreciate the fact that you already invested money to make the house more eco-friendly and energy-efficient.
Choose low- or no-VOC paint
If you want your home freshly painted, don’t simply focus on the new color. It is best to choose eco-friendly paint instead of your conventional paint. Regular paint contains high levels of Volatile Organic Compounds like acetone, ethanol, and formaldehyde. All these harmful chemicals are known to cause harmful effects to our health.
When VOC paint is used indoors, the effects can be higher for up to five times. Thankfully, the market offers tons of low- and no-VOC paint you can use or your home. These types of paint are eco-friendlier and have little to no harmful emissions.
Sustainable decking
Want to enjoy your outdoor space? Then you can always add a sustainable deck to add more living space into your home. You can choose between a variety of decking materials like reclaimed wood, composite, or timber decking.
It is undeniable that the COVID-19 crisis made people rethink their choices when it comes to renovating and buying homes. According to MarketWatch, more homebuyers will want their homes to have outdoor living spaces like decks and patios. Investing in a sustainable deck early on taking great care of your deck will make your home more desirable for your future home buyers.
When it comes to renovating your home, keep sustainability in mind. You will feel happier and healthier knowing you did your part in reducing your starter home’s carbon footprint. Your pocket will thank you for making the wise investment and you will find it easier to find buyers who will want your home once you decide to sell it in the future.
