Why Do Millennials Want Energy Efficient Homes?

According to a survey by the National Association of Home Builders, millennials are after energy efficient home features that could definitely make a difference between making an offer or not. 

The survey, released over a year ago, found that 84% of millennials are willing to spend 2 to 3 percent more for an energy efficient home in exchange for a reduction in their utility bills. 

From an environmental standpoint, millennials are into the idea of cutting back on our environmental footprint in the form of wasted resources and energy.

So why are millennials so into these energy efficient homes?

For starters, millennials are a research-oriented generation. Growing up with the Internet, millennials are used to commanding the world of information at their fingertips, whenever they want to. They can Google the answer to a question in less than 3-seconds, and they use this power to their advantage by amassing information on just about everything. Through their research, millennials have discovered that key energy improvements, like switching out incandescent bulbs for LEDs and installing new leak-proof windows, will drastically cut down on their energy power bills. Over time, these utility savings will greatly exceed the increased home asking price they have to deal with at the start of the process.

Additionally, newer energy regulations and building codes are also pushing more homeowners to become acquainted with energy efficiency, which is, of course, something millennials have learned through their research.

Secondly, Millennials care about the environment and the longevity of the planet. They are willing to pay a dollar more for a biodegradable cup at Starbucks over the original option that clogs landfills. Millennials want to do their part to cut down on our environmental and carbon footprints. One easy way to go about that is through an energy efficient home that sets an example for everyone to follow. Plus, millennials don’t just stop at utility bills – they want a composter and other types of recycling mechanisms that help them reduce their waste disposal dramatically. 

It’s Not Such a Bad Thing

In the long run, energy efficiency is better for our economy and our environment. Although it may seem annoying to a homeowner when they have to update their energy structures in the house, it’s much better for our children, our grandchildren, and us. Green homes, as they are being called today, are also better for your savings, witnessing a reduction in hundreds of dollars every month simply from cutting back on heat and A/C as a result of insulated windows.

Millennials are onto something here. Sustainable energy home designs are beneficial for everyone involved.