July 2010 Green News Update

Section 1: Green Home Update

There are currently 177 certified green homes in Maricopa county for sale in the regional multiple listing service (MLS).  Certified green homes are residential homes for sale that have been verified as "green" by recognized third party certification authorities, including the US Green Building Council (USGBC), National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the City of Scottsdale, or Energy Star.  These homes are located throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area.

Much like previous months, the 177 number is far below the actual number of certified green homes for sale since many listing agents fail to recognize that their listing has been certified through one of these green programs, especially homes that have been certified under the Energy Star program.

On the other hand, the number of certified green listings in the Phoenix area has grown substantially...partially as a result of listing agents properly listing a home in the MLS and partially from an increase in the number of certified green homes. Last month we had approximately 138 homes for sale at this time.

Green home certification varies from program to program.  However, there are several common denominators with each program out there.  Each program requires the home (or a sampling of the homes in certified subdivisions) to be independently tested by a third party energy auditor.  The must be 15% or more efficient than homes built in 2004 or sooner.  Each program requires the homes to use less energy, less water, and practice sustainable building methods in order to achieve greater comfort, cost savings, and a healthier environment.

Section 2: Finding Your Next Green Home

Looking for greener options in your next home?  Regardless of the age, location, and condition of the home, let your Green Leaf Realty agent show you how you can find greener options in your next home.  Regardless if you are looking for a historic fixer upper downtown or horse property in Desert Hills, you have options available. 

Call Rob Madden at 480-888-1234 to talk about your green options today.

Section 3: Selling Your Green Home

Are you aware that there are is a state tax deduction for selling an energy efficient home?  Between now and December 2010, you may be eligible to receive up to $5,000 to deduct from your taxes.  The subtraction is equal to 5% of the sales price excluding commissions, taxes, interest, points, and other brokerage, finance and escrow charges, not to exceed $5,000.  Homes do not necessarily need to be Energy Star/LEED/NAHB certified but must exceed the 1995 Model Energy Code Threshold by at least 50%.   A home energy audit is required to determine the efficiency of the home.  An interesting twist to the law allows a seller to transfer this deduction to a buyer as an incentive for purchase.

There are many other nuances, credits, deductions, and other benefits to selling your green home...to talk with an expert about selling your green home, call us at 480-888-1234 or 602-993-7509 for a free, no-obligation apppointment. 

Section 4: Phoenix Foreclosures

Want to start your home search looking for a foreclosure that you can green up?  Visit our online foreclosure website at http://www.foreclosurehomesearch.com to view all Phoenix foreclosures, short sales, Phoenix HUD homes, and other REO and bargain properties for sale (even green foreclosures too).