What’s the big deal about being green?

The media has been reporting on the surge in green design kitchens. Consumers are concerned about the environment and how they can make a difference when designing or remodeling their homes. As consumers, we want to do the right thing and not waste resources… but as consumers, can the cost for going green exceed our budgets?

What are some of the ways we can go green without seeing red? There are ways to go green within your budget… from cleaning products to appliances and lighting and I will explain how it will help your family as well as home’s resale value. Regardless of your budget, you can go green in your kitchen.

What are the benefits/detriments of going green?

The benefits are many! Knowing that you and your family are using products that are free of toxins and are beneficial to the environment (meaning they can be recycled and not end up in a landfill) are phenomenal.

One reader has asked me how does going green affects your home’s resale value – here’s interesting data. Consumers are quite savvy these days when it comes to the latest trends. Green design has been incorporated in everything from building materials to flooring, countertops, paint, and even cleaning products. Existing homes that have been remodeled using green products will attract buyers attention as an added benefit. Going green is not only good for your health, going green will bring you more green (sellers) when you sell your home.


… a ‘green’ kitchen

For resale purposes, whether you are getting ready to sell now, or if you are not planning to sell for several years, the first place to look is at your appliances. If they truly have seen better days, and need to be replaced, you should look for appliances with the Energy Star ratings. If you’re thinking, well the dishwasher or refrigerator aren’t that old and they work fine, think again. Most older appliances are not energy efficient, and will cost you more in utility bills to run than the new Energy Star appliances. So even if you’re not moving, wouldn’t you like to lower your utility bills and use a new appliance now rather than replace it to sell your home and not enjoy using it yourself?

Stay tuned for Part 2, where I talk about how to go green in your kitchen when your budget is tight.

Till next time,
Ginger