Properties that are shown to be the most energy efficient sell for more, according to the findings of a new report by the Australian Property Institute.
The report reveals that energy efficient properties achieve a higher selling price and command higher rents compared to less efficient buildings. Which is certainly going to be welcome news, not least because the UK Government has set itself targets to make all new homes carbon free by 2016, with the same aim for non-residential buildings to be achieved by 2019.
Whether it’s fitting a new energy efficient central heating boiler, installing double glazing or making sure your property is better insulated, by implementing a few energy saving measures, homeowners can not only add value to their property – making it more attractive to buyers – but they can do their bit for the environment at the same time, helping to use less energy and reduce CO2 emissions.
The UK Green Building Council hopes the findings revealed in the report – which was conducted by the Australian Property Institute, in conjunction with the Property Funds Association – could help create a business case to industry in the UK for green buildings. The UK Green Building Council was launched in 2007 and campaigns to improve the sustainability of the built environment, in a way that benefits people and the planet.
Written by Graeme Newell and John MacFarlane from the University of Western Sydney, and compiled in conjunction with the University of Maastricht in the Netherlands, the Building Better Returns report analysed the performance of green buildings in Australia. It is the first major Australian study to assess the value of green office buildings and their financial performance.
