15 lightyears has been conducting energy test for home builders in Florida for almost a decade and in that time have seen an increase in demand for energy efficiency. A new report from HomeLight has solidified our thoughts as it shows that consumers' energy use and energy efficiency preferences have increased since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic last year. The survey was based on 1,000  top real estate agents, the results from a survey sheds light on the current home buying and selling trends as well as some interesting insights about energy efficiency awareness and preferences.

Report Highlights Show Regional Disparities

Some results from the report include:

• 47% of real estate agents say homebuyers have increasingly prioritized energy-efficient features.

• Buyers care most about whether a home’s windows are EnergyStar certified over thermostats, appliances, and hot water heaters.

• 65% of buyers say sufficient insulation is a must

• 47 % cite the importance of LED or CFL lighting,

• 41 % want weather stripping. (Personally, I would have thought that number would have been higher).
  

What It Means for the Market

The housing market of 2020 was booming and this trend is expected to remain strong in 2021. Inventory could remain tight all year. Whether buyers are looking at an existing or a new home, a top-selling point for most will be the home’s energy-efficient features, especially with people spending more time at home. Putting those features upfront in ads could help persuade buyers to choose the more energy-efficient home. 

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