Did you know the cost of green improvements to your home can be significantly offset through federal, state, local, and utility credits and incentives? Sources for tax credits and incentives:

Federal

• Home Improvements – Stimulus Bill Update
• Efficient Cars – Stimulus Bill Update

Improvements / Purchases made in 2009 will be claimed on your 2009 taxes (filed by April 15, 2010) — use IRS Tax Form 5695 (2009 version) — it will be available late 2009 or early 2010.

• Tax Incentives Assistance Project (TIAP)
• Brochure: Residential Energy Efficiency Incentives (TIAP)

State

• The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE)
• US Department of Energy - Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy by State
• National Association of State Energy Officials – Funding Opportunities and Resources

Local

• The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE)
• Energy Star's Appliance Rebate Locator (by zip code)

Utility

• The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE)
• Programs and Incentives Information from the Edison Electric Institute

Did you know special financing and funding is available for green home purchase and improvements?

Financing And Funding For Green Homes And Improvements

• Energy Efficient Mortgages – from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
• Energy Efficient Mortgages – from Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET)
• Green Financing Programs – from myEnergyLoan
• Funding Opportunities – directory from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Did you know there are various national programs that certify green homes and require third party verification for green systems and construction?

National Certifications And Guidelines

• Energy Efficiency for New Homes - from ENERGY STAR®
• Energy Efficiency through Home Improvement - from ENERGY STAR
• National Green Building Program – from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
• LEED® For Homes – from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)
• REGREEN – USGBC’s guide to green home remodeling

Other Home Guidelines And Resources

• Air Quality at Home - from EPA’s Indoor airPLUS Program
• Saving Water at Home - from EPA's Water Program
• Waste Reduction at Home - from EPA's Waste Program
• Find Recycling Centers for Various Home Items – from Earth 911

Home Energy Audits

The first step towards an energy-efficient home is to conduct an energy audit to find out where your home is losing energy. They range around $500 depending on the size of your home. An audit performed by a Certified Rater can include a blower door test to depressurize your home to look for air leaks, infrared scan of walls and ceilings, a low E detector for windows, and a survey of your lighting and appliances. A report is generated with recommendations. Verification of improvements developed from the report can be a major selling point. Remember to check with your local utility to see if they offer free or discounted energy audits for their customers.

• More information on Home Energy Audits – from Energy Star
• Find a Certified Rater – from RESNET

As an NAR Green Designee I have advanced training in seeking out, understanding, and marketing homes with green features. I can help you separate fact from fiction and make informed decisions regarding green real estate. Feel free to contact me with any questions about greening your life and home.