Discovering Water Efficiency: A Homebuyer's Guide

Lisa Mailhot  |  January 18, 2024

Buyers

Discovering Water Efficiency: A Homebuyer's Guide

 

Water is a finite resource, and with droughts becoming more prevalent, it's crucial to consider water efficiency in your home. This guide reveals vital insights on water wastage, areas where improvements can be made, and what to look for in a water-efficient home. Whether you're buying, selling, or aiming to enhance your living space, these tips will save water and contribute to a sustainable future.

What to Look for in a Water-Efficient Home

Water is a precious resource, and as droughts become increasingly common, evaluating your home's water efficiency is essential. Every extra drop you use contributes to the strain on your local water resources. With more than 50% of the United States facing some drought, it's time to rethink how we manage water in our homes.

Where We Waste the Most Water

The bathroom tends to be the primary culprit for water wastage, with daily routines like long showers and consistently flushing toilets contributing significantly. Emily Martis, a product manager at Moen, suggests that monitoring your home's water usage can lead to valuable insights. This is especially crucial if you're considering selling your home in a drought-prone area, as it can help identify areas for improvement.

 

What to Look for In Water-Efficient Homes

If you're in the market for a water-efficient home, looking beyond just the bathroom is essential. Real estate agent Neil Brooks recommends focusing on the property's inside and outside. Look for features such as hot water recirculating systems, water-saving appliances, dual flush toilets, drip irrigation systems, and pools with covers. Avoid water-intensive systems like water softeners and reverse osmosis, and consider a comprehensive home inspection for a clearer picture.

Grass and Landscaping: A Crucial Element

While the initial thought might be to remove grass and plants for water efficiency, Kody Ketterling, a landscape expert, advises against it—plants and grass act as natural coolants to the soil, preventing excessive heat and evaporation. Efficient sprinkler usage, smart controllers, and mowing lawns at a higher height are practical strategies to maintain a green yard while conserving water.

Is it Worth Investing In a Water-Efficient Home?

Investing in a water-efficient home is not just about sustainability; it can significantly impact your property's value, especially in drought-prone areas. Neil Brooks emphasizes the importance of being connected to a municipal water source, highlighting the challenges homes face relying on private wells. Smart tools like leak detectors add an extra layer of protection, ensuring water is used efficiently and preventing damage.

Bottomline

Water-efficient living is not only about environmental responsibility but also a smart investment for the future. Whether you're buying or selling in Orange County, consider these water-saving tips for a more sustainable lifestyle. Let's connect and make your move a step towards a water-efficient and eco-friendly home. Let's connect for a sustainable move. 

 

Reference: "What to Look for in a Water-Efficient Home" by Kristi Waterworth, Published on Jan. 17, 2024 in USNews. 

RECENT BLOG POSTS

What the AFFH Repeal Means for Homeowners & Buyers

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is repealing the Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) rule, a policy designed to address housing discrimi… Read more

Can You Really Pay Your Mortgage With a Credit Card?

Thinking about paying your mortgage with a credit card? While it might sound convenient, there are risks and rewards to consider. In this blog, we dive into why it's b… Read more

Late May Listings Lead to Larger Profits

Discover the prime time to list your home for sale in Orange County with insights from Zillow's latest report. Late May emerges as a golden window, promising significa… Read more

Will Falling Mortgage Rates Finally Ignite the Housing Market?

Mortgage rates are falling, but is it enough to jumpstart homebuyer demand? Inventory is growing, but pending sales remain sluggish. Explore the latest housing market … Read more

Why Retirees Are Moving to Lower-Tax States

Soaring property taxes in states like New York, Illinois, and Texas are pushing retirees to more tax-friendly areas in the South and West. With affordability and quali… Read more

The 2025 Home Improvement Playbook: Upgrades That Add Value & Comfort

Thinking of selling your home—or just want to enjoy it more? 2025 home renovation trends focus on comfort, electrification, and curb appeal. From kitchen remodels to b… Read more

The Secret Weapon to Selling Fast: Mastering the Art of Home Staging

Want to sell your home for top dollar? Staging isn’t just about making a space look pretty—it’s a powerful marketing tool that can dramatically impact how buyers perce… Read more

Zombie Foreclosures Are Slowly Creeping Back

Zombie foreclosures are seeing a modest rise, with over 7,000 vacant pre-foreclosure homes across the U.S. Explore what zombie foreclosures are, why they’re increasing… Read more

Palisades Land Boom: A Golden Opportunity for Investors and Homebuilders

The Palisades real estate market is heating up as wildfire-affected lots hit the market, with experts predicting up to 750 listings in the coming years. With land pric… Read more

We are excited to assist you in finding your perfect home

Let's find a time that suits you best to chat about your goals, show you how we work, and figure out how we can help you the most