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Beware of Greenwashing in the Housing Market

By Dayanti Karunaratne
February 13, 2009
File under: Green Building Techniques, New Communities

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It’s no secret that corporations – and the agencies that market them – have grown wise to the increased public concern about environmental issues. At a time when many market sectors are hurting, businesses of all types are trying to catch some of the momentum in the so-called green economy.

With good reason – green products are among the fastest growing segments in the market and present a huge potential for growth.

While its important to read product labels carefully to make sure you’re getting a truly green product, the stakes are significantly higher when it comes to investing in a house or condo. You need to look closer, ask questions, and, perhaps most importantly, not be satisfied by the marketing pitch. …read more of Beware of Greenwashing in the Housing Market here

 
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Rent Green

By Dayanti Karunaratne
February 9, 2009
File under: New Communities, Remodeling Green

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While the term green building may conjure up images of costly renovations like positioning our house in relation to the sun, in reality, many of us are at the mercy of our landlords. Who keeps an eye on efficiency? As a renter, how can you ‘green’ your humble abode?

One way is to voice these concerns when you’re shopping around for a new place. Take the opportunity to bring energy efficiency into the conversation when visiting potential units.

Beyond who will pay the bills, ask questions about efficiency and maintenance. For example, if you want to further insulate your hot water heater, will your landlord pay for the materials? (A foil blanket on an electric water tank stops up to 97 percent of radiant heat loss which, depending on the location of your tank, means the $20 device will pay for itself within a year.) …read more of Rent Green here

 
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