Derek's Blog

Weatherstrip and caulk your windows- 

By doing this you will decrease the amount of heat loss that escapes through these unsealed sections.  It can make a dramatic difference in your energy bill.

Change out your light bulbs to CFL or LED light bulbs-                                          

CFL and LED light bulbs last a lot longer and can reduce your electric bill.

Insulate your hot water heater and exposed pipes-

A lot of heat is lost outside of the walls of your hot water heater.  By insulating it and the hot water pipes leading out of it, you will save money because your hot water heater wont have to work as hard.

Install low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators-

This will reduce your water bill significantly as less water is wasted.  Another thing to keep in mind is to shut off the water while brushing your teeth.

Start a compost pile-

Instead of throwing everything in the trash, make a compost pile somewhere in your yard.  You can use this for future use around plants and gardens.  

Paint using low or no VOC paint-

Many paints contain compounds that release harmful gases into the air even after the paint is dry.  By using low or no VOC paints you can reduce or eliminate these harmful volatile organic compounds(VOC). By doing this you will have better Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and can possibly improve your family's health.

Collect Rainwater to water plants-                                                   

You can collect rainwater easily from your gutters by putting a barrel at the bottom of your liters.  Then you can put a spicket at the bottom of the barrel to use the water.  There are other methods of collecting water as well.

Strategically Plant Trees-

Tree's contribute to better air quality and can also provide shade which can reduce heating costs.

This is the first of a series of articles on ways to live a greener lifestyle.

Find out more energy saving tips and information on Green Real Estate at http://Green30.net

What a pleasure it was to attend the first National Association of REALTORS, Core Green Designation Course In Orlando Florida.

Living a greener lifestyle is essential to preserving our environment.  And one of the best thing about it is the fact that there are so many benefits.  There are tax benefits, special loan programs, reduction in energy costs, health benefits and much more.

For builders, buyers are willing to pay more for a Green Home, because of the long term savings created.  In the long run they end up saving money.

I look forward to becoming the Myrtle Beach and Surrounding Area's agent of choice when it comes to purchasing a Green Home or property with "sustainable" features.

Although the Myrtle Beach area does not have as many Green Homes as some other area's, the number of builders who are are planning on building green homes and communities is increasing. I look forward to helping our area stand out when it comes to Green building and education.

If you have a moment please visit my website http://DerekHeppe.com/, for more information on ways to live a greener lifestyle or for help in finding Green Real Estate in Myrtle Beach or the Grand Strand Area.

Remember, always work with a Realtor who is a qualified, Green professional who has been educated if you are in the market for a green home.