Three Things You Didn’t Know You Could Get from a Self-Sustaining Community

When it comes to buying a new home, families look at a number of factors to determine the best place to live. As many as 45% of home buyers surveyed want to live within the boundaries of a particular school or school district; others consider factors like local amenities or have a preference based on the number of bedrooms or bathrooms in a home. Yet one feature in newer neighborhoods is also attracting buyers: the eco-friendliness of a self-sustaining community.

Think you know what it’s like to live in a master-planned community filled with modern homes? Think again. Here are three things you may not have realized about living in a self-sustaining community.

1. A self-sustaining community offers plenty of green space. Living in a planned community is often desired by families because they offer a park-like setting. This means that there are usually nature trails and great neighborhoods for family walks, which help keep everyone active whether they are young or old. Some of these communities also have golf courses, pools, and even beaches for plenty of beautiful outdoor space.

2. Energy efficiency is considered an essential. One of the biggest benefits of buying a new home is that it is more likely to contain eco-friendly appliances, windows, and other fixtures. For example, around 94% of home buyers surveyed would like to have Energy Star-rated appliances in their new home; most builders will deliver on that. Additionally, some homes today come with green certification, which can increase the resale value of a home by an average of 9%. Newer windows, doors, roofs, and other elements of a home are also better when new because they help save on the costs of energy.

3. Builders use eco-friendly materials. Because new home construction uses many resources, it is important to choose a community that is built responsibly. When working with a home builder, make sure that you find one who uses sustainable resources that won’t put harmful chemicals into groundwater or soil nearby. Many of these builders will also replant trees to allow these spaces to flourish with wildlife after they’ve been developed.

What kind of neighborhood are you looking to live in? Tell us in the comments.