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HOMEOWNER GUIDE TO GREEN INCENTIVES AND RESOURCES
Hyperlinks are in colored text – Click on an item of interest

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
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
 
 
Local
 
 
 
Utility
 
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®
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.
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.
 
Jeff Martin
610-921-2400 x215
610-898-6215 (Direct)