Improvements reduce monthly utility bills

The rising interest in eco-friendly living has homeowners paying a premium to turn their property a shade of green. The good news is that these efforts can put some green back into their pocketbooks in the long run.

"Earth-friendly products and techniques that reduce the cost of maintaining a home are strong selling points for home buyers today," said Fran Broude, president and COO of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. "Some Realtors are even receiving certification as Ecobrokers to support the growing green real estate market."

Reduce and improve. Homeowners can save significant amounts on monthly utilities by installing insulation, sealing cracks, tightening windows and purchasing Energy Star appliances. Something as simple as a programmable thermostat makes it easier to conserve. Families can shave 5 percent off energy bills for every degree a thermostat is lowered below 70 in winter and 2 percent for every degree above 72 in the summer.

Take the lead. A new initiative dubbed LEED for Homes (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) addresses green components for single-family homes such as solar panels, dual-flush toilets and sustainable landscaping. For more information, visit the U.S. Green Building Council Web site at www.usgbc.org.

Get inspired. Midwestern museums, like Chicago's Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, provide inspiration for aspiring green homeowners. The museum's Extreme Green House offers information and advice from energy conservation at home to eco-friendly cleaning products.

Simply green. Buying a home positioned to maximize sun exposure, that's near public transit and has insulated water pipes are all eco-friendly housing choices that come with little to no extra cost. Talk to your Realtor about the green expectations you have for your next home.