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Potential Energy Savings Huge With Green Remodeling
The largest potential increase in home energy efficiency can be achieved through green remodeling, NAHB Remodelers told the National Association of Realtors® during their legislative meetings and trade expo in Washington, D.C. on May 13.
Speaking at the Realtors®’ 2008 Land Use Property Rights and Environment Forum, Greg Miedema, CGR, CAPS, GMB, vice chair of the NAHB Remodelers and president of Dakota Builders in Tucson, Ariz., said sheer numbers favored green remodeling over new home construction when considering potential energy savings.
He noted that there were more than 125 million existing single-family homes in the U.S. that could potentially be remodeled with energy- and resource-efficient appliances, techniques and features compared to the new home market.
David Rodgers, of the U.S. Department of Energy, also participating in the forum, said a vast majority of home buyers — about 92% — said energy efficiency was very important or somewhat important when considering buying a new home, according to recent surveys.
In addition, 90% of potential home buyers “would be willing to pay $5,000 more for a house that would use less energy and protect the earth,” Rogers said.
NAHB remodelers already use products and techniques that save energy and reduce waste, according to recent NAHB surveys of remodelers.
Of the remodelers surveyed, 85% said they installed low-emissivity windows, 68% installed insulated exterior doors and 65% upgrade existing insulation in the homes they remodeled.
In addition, more than 75% said they use techniques to conserve lumber and 65% said they used recycled or recyclable materials in their projects.
For more information on green remodeling, click here.
 Increase Your Professional Credibility
The Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR) designation emphasizes business management skills as the key to a professional remodeling operation.
Remodelers who earn the CGR become members of an exclusive national program and gain recognition as industry leaders.
To learn more about the CGR designation, visit www.nahb.org/CGRinfo, or call The Professional Designation Help Line at 800-368-5242 x8154.
 'How to Find a Professional Remodeler' Available at BuilderBooks.com
"How to Find a Professional Remodeler," available at BuilderBooks.com, promotes the professionalism of your remodeling business by offering valuable advice to your customers on the process of selecting a remodeler.
The brochure guides consumers from the dream to the reality of having their homes remodeled by skilled and trained professionals. Sections include what to look for in a professional remodeler and what questions to ask.
To view or puchase this publication online, click here, or call 800-223-2665 to order.
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