Oil Heated Houses Lose Value
In an age of high energy costs, the first question from buyers
when viewing a house is "oil or gas?" and "is it insulated?". Gas is
now about one third of the cost of oil. In many areas of Concord, gas
is not available. The solution is to insulate, insulate, insulate. Most
houses in Concord that are more than 15 years old, (which is most of
our housing inventory), are inadequately insulated. In the following
link, the Town of Concord provides a helpful Guide to Saving Energy in
Your Home:
A house that is well insulated can be marketed as a "green"
house and the seller can boast about their heating bills. This will
appeal to buyers who will pay more for the house. Buyers are interested
in saving money with lower energy costs but they also feel a
responsibility to reduce their carbon footprint. Going "green" and
being "sustainable" is a widespread popular trend.
I have just spent the last month shopping for insulation
contractors to insulate my own house. I have talked to 5 contractors
and have received 5 different bids including a wide variety of opinions
and advice on insulation methods. I invite you to call me to talk about
these contractors and their bids.
The following link: http://www.energystar.gov/ia/partners/publications/pubdocs/DIY_Guide_May_2008.pdf will enable you to see where cold air enters the house and where heat escapes.
Raise your home's value by reducing your fuel bills.