|
|
||
Builder provides a truly energy-efficient home at the cost of a conventional house Date published: 12/18/2009
BY RICHARD AMRHINE A home could be the most energy-efficient structure on the planet, but if you can't afford the initial cost, it doesn't do you or the planet much good. As true energy-efficient design has wiggled its way into the mainstream marketplace, builders and real estate agents have pitched the long-term savings that would offset the somewhat higher purchase price of such a home. Now, there is evidence that the times are changing. Republic Home Builders, a regional builder based in Spotsylvania, has just completed a version of its Alexandria model in King George County that is Energy Star-certified and EarthCraft-verified. It has undergone the same rigorous testing that any home constructed under the guidelines of those programs would. The ranch-style home is on Charleston Street in Oakland Park subdivision. It has four bedrooms, three full bathrooms, a full walkout basement and 2,256 square feet of living space. It is under contract for $174,584. So not only are there long-term energy cost savings in store, a 30-year mortgage will offer immediate and long-term value for a house of this size. Dan Sandoval, owner of Republic Home Builders, said it's important for buyers to know that they can get a substantial, energy-efficient home for what a conventional home might cost. "We build entry-level and step-up homes, and every one from now on is going to meet or exceed the guidelines," he said. "We are 100 percent committed to that." ENERGY EXPERTISE Also on hand for a tour of the home earlier this week was Dan Dukes of Green Source Raters. He has been involved with many home construction projects in the region that were conceived from the beginning to meet Energy Star and EarthCraft guidelines. "People should be shopping for homes like they shop for appliances. If they're buying a refrigerator they know to look for the familiar blue Energy Star symbol," he said. "They should do the same thing when they're buying a house." Dukes said that as he and Sandoval worked on this house, they knew from the features, materials and methods being used that the house would meet certification requirements. They just didn't know how far it would exceed them. Turns out the house exceeded the guidelines in some cases by as much as 30 percent.
Date published: 12/18/2009
1. Be respectful. No personal attacks.
|
|
|||||||||||||||
