It may seem like a trendy buzzword, but the truth is that choosing to live ‘sustainably’ is not only important and necessary, it’s also a great investment.
If you are in the market for a new family home, taking these factors into consideration when looking for sustainable and eco-friendly options, will help you avoid buying into developments that might ‘greenwash’ you with fancy wording without having any real substance. The team from South Coast-based Serenity Hills development share a few guidelines to keep in mind:
1. Cost-saving factors: LED lighting, gas-powered cooking appliances, solar panels and water retention devices all result in massive monthly cost savings for the homeowner.
2. Peace of mind: When investing in a sustainable home, buyers benefit from peace of mind knowing that they are positively contributing to the fight against climate change every day.
3. Increased build durability: The key to building a truly sustainable home is using products that are environmentally friendly and durable, meaning the house can withstand all elements and remain intact for decades to come.
4. Long-term investment: Buying a sustainable home is not only great for those living there, it’s a great long-term investment as the demand for sustainable living continues to grow. These homes offer buyers much lower monthly costs and have a higher resale value than other homes.
5. Uninterrupted lifestyle: Load-shedding and water shortages are a daily reality with few short-term solutions.
A sustainable home ensures uninterrupted water and power supply through solar backup, gas appliances and water retention strategies.
6. Connection to nature: A disconnect with the natural world is considered one of the reasons the planet is in crisis. A sustainable home in an eco-estate offers indigenous gardens that attract insects, birds and wildlife, and provide wonderful nature trails for families to explore.
7. Better home loans: Another financial incentive for those looking at sustainable homes is that, according to the Green Building Council of South Africa, banks are starting to recognise the benefits of such homes, with a reduction in risk and lower running costs translating to more likelihood of securing a home loan at a reasonable rate.
About Serenity Hills: The latest eco-focused estate being developed on the KZN South Coast, Serenity Hills meets the needs of sustainable home buyers. Situated in Margate, it boasts international-standard design and lifestyle offerings.
Details: www.serenityhills.co.za, @serenityhillsecoestate
