For many families, a two-car garage, expensive automobiles, and a sizable home are signs of success; however, a new trend is emerging in many American cities including Austin. Living small is more than a housing choice, but a philosophy that embraces environmental responsibility and social change. Rather than buying a large home and [...]
For many families, a two-car garage, expensive automobiles, and a sizable home are signs of success; however, a new trend is emerging in many American cities including Austin. Living small is more than a housing choice, but a philosophy that embraces environmental responsibility and social change. Rather than buying a large home and paying to heat and cool extra space, more and more individuals and families are choosing to downsize into a more energy-efficient, smaller space. By purchasing a smaller house or condominium, home buyers can minimize their environmental footprint and reduce their expenses while maintaining comfort and privacy.
A number of companies specialize in manufacturing pre-fabricated small homes that incorporate energy-efficient features. Smaller spaces require less energy for basic climate control; by adding features like solar panels, passive solar heating solutions, greenhouse glazing, and enhanced insulation, homeowners can significantly reduce the already low heating and cooling costs for these properties and provide a comfortable environment for their families.
Green condominiums are another solid choice for smaller families, couples, and singles; small by design, these properties typically feature more amenities and greater luxury than comparably-sized single-family homes. Because most Austin condominiums are located in close proximity to shopping and entertainment opportunities as well as workplaces and schools, some condo owners may be able to minimize or eliminate the use of private transportation altogether. This represents a major savings on automobile insurance, car payments, and gasoline, making it a financially and environmentally responsible choice. Many condo owners retain the use of a car, but the reduced use of gasoline alone can make a significant difference in the cost of living and justify the price of living in a downtown condo.
Even for families considering traditional homes, the living small philosophy can be put to good use in deciding on which home to purchase. Things to consider include:
- Does the home contain a great deal of decorative but unusable space? Vaulted ceilings and sweeping staircases add visual interest, but heating and cooling that additional space can be expensive and wasteful.
- Is the home located close to shopping, schools, and other frequently-visited locations? Walking or biking rather than driving to nearby destinations can save hundreds of dollars per year and helps keep Austin air clean.
- How sustainable is the property? Can it be upgraded to energy-efficient heating and cooling through solar panels or other green technologies? Landscaping with native plants can reduce the need for watering in the summer and provides an attractive, authentically Texan environment for local wildlife while embodying the living small concept, even in a larger home.
Austin residents will soon have a new green option in condominium living in the downtown area. Designed by the West Avenue Properties LLC, the 904 West condominium development is already underway and will incorporate state-of-the-art green technologies in every aspect of its construction. Additionally, each of the 33 planned units will be designed [...]
Austin residents will soon have a new green option in condominium living in the downtown area. Designed by the West Avenue Properties LLC, the 904 West condominium development is already underway and will incorporate state-of-the-art green technologies in every aspect of its construction. Additionally, each of the 33 planned units will be designed to be environmentally sustainable in its own right and offer employment and shopping opportunities in easy reach on foot or by bicycle. Local merchants include Whole Foods Market, Chico’s, OfficeMax, and BookPeople; fitness fanatics can choose among four quality options including Castle Hill Fitness Center, Gold’s Gym, Mecca Gym, and Pure Austin. For those in search of Austin nightlife, numerous bars and restaurants are in the immediate vicinity. In keeping with the green theme, 904 West is located close to several parks including Duncan Park, Republic Square Park, and the Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail.
Each 904 West unit will feature a solar power unit to reduce energy costs and lessen the environmental impact of the development; owners can opt for an online monitoring system to keep track of their energy production and savings. Energy-efficient LED lighting will be installed throughout, while high-efficiency Energy Star kitchen appliances, tankless water heaters, and HVAC systems will produce even greater energy savings. Dual-pane windows with low emissivity (low-e) glass let in the light without turning up the heat, and the hardwood flooring meets strict Forest Stewardship Council certification standards. Residents will enjoy convenient recycling services and ample landscaping and green space surrounding the building; specialized rainwater collectors designed to water the landscaping and lawn have been incorporated into the construction plan as well.
The development at 904 West received significant support from the City of Austin, which offered major rebates on the solar systems; since the solar panels are expected to produce almost 140,000 kilowatt hours of electricity each year, the rebates are a solid demonstration of Austin’s commitment to green energy. The first seven of these exclusive units will be completed in April; three are already spoken for. Condominiums at 904 West start in the $160s for a 500-square-foot unit and run as high as $330,000 for the largest 1,100-square foot unit.
Spring cleaning is an annual ritual for most homeowners: throwing out the old, dusting and shining up the new, and generally giving the whole house a thorough scrubbing and polishing. Environmental responsibility has added a new twist to this old tradition, however; many Austin residents now choose to go green when they spring clean. [...]
Time to get to spring cleaning!
Spring cleaning is an annual ritual for most homeowners: throwing out the old, dusting and shining up the new, and generally giving the whole house a thorough scrubbing and polishing. Environmental responsibility has added a new twist to this old tradition, however; many Austin residents now choose to go green when they spring clean. Here are some ways to improve your home’s environment while preserving the earth’s environment at the same time.
Downsize and minimize
Most homeowners accumulate a surprising amount of clutter over the years, keeping a wide array of items that are never used. By reducing the amount of unused items in your home, you can more easily keep it clean and organized, allowing your spring cleaning process to go more smoothly next year. It’s important to be realistic. If you’ve only used your elaborate espresso machine twice since you bought it, chances are you don’t really need it after all. By clearing out unused items, you can save on space and minimize your cleaning time considerably.
Don’t toss it, donate it
Used items in good repair are always in demand by various charities. Thrift stores and local organizations often derive a significant portion of their income from these donations. Depending on the specific charity, you may be able to donate:
- Clothing
- Books
- Furniture
- Automobiles
- Large and small appliances
- Tableware and silverware
- Toys
- Home decor
Best of all, you can often deduct the fair market value of donated items on next year’s tax return, making it a win-win situation for everyone involved.
Avoid harsh chemical cleaners
A number of green cleansers are available on the market; alternatively, you can make your own with borax, baking soda, vinegar, and other natural substances. These are gentler on the environment and easier on your wallet as well. To avoid pests, use natural repellents like cedar wood, garlic, and various essential oils and herbs. Mice hate the smell of peppermint oil, for instance; sprinkling a few drops on a piece of cloth will help keep them out of your closet or kitchen.
Recycle
For items that can’t be reused or donated due to damage or wear, recycling is the next best thing. Used computer equipment, appliances, cell phones, plastics, glass, and paper can all be recycled through various companies and organizations. By minimizing the amount of trash that goes to landfills, you can help to keep the environment safe and minimize your environmental footprint.
By incorporating environmentally friendly methods into your spring cleaning routine, you can ensure that your home is a healthier, safer place to live both inside and out.
Developer Magazine has announced its 2009 Sustainable Community of the Year. Mueller is located in the vibrant city center of Austin, Texas, and reflects Austin’s commitment to green technology and environmental responsibility. The development makes use of the land formerly devoted to the Robert Mueller Municipal Airport, reimagining it as a mixed-use [...]
Developer Magazine has announced its 2009 Sustainable Community of the Year. Mueller is located in the vibrant city center of Austin, Texas, and reflects Austin’s commitment to green technology and environmental responsibility. The development makes use of the land formerly devoted to the Robert Mueller Municipal Airport, reimagining it as a mixed-use urban environment incorporating commercial and residential elements in one unique package. Built by Catellus Development Corporation and designed by ROMA Design Group, the project is expected to provide approximately 10,000 construction jobs to Austin residents.
As a participant in the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) for Neighborhood Development program, the development requires that all residential construction in Mueller qualify for Austin Energy’s three-star energy-efficiency rating. In addition, commercial buildings within the development must meet LEED certification standards; this ensures that they will provide healthy and energy-efficient environments. The Dell Children’s Medical Center of Central Texas is the first hospital ever to achieve LEED platinum certification and set the standard for new construction in Mueller. It is joined by the platinum-certified Ronald McDonald House and the silver-rated Dell Pediatric Research Institute; Mueller’s strict environmental standards ensure the highest level of green-friendly building possible.
Mueller already boasts over 200 three-star rated homes; the community is eventually slated to provide 4,600 residential units, of which one-fourth will be devoted to low and middle-income housing. Entry-level homes are designed to provide a point of access to the housing market for younger buyers, while a senior living community is expected to provide affordable housing for older residents. Ultimately it is planned that 10,000 residents will be served by the Mueller development. Green space and parks comprise twenty percent of the development and occupy 140 acres, providing families with safe places to relax and play together.
Mueller is the result of a partnership between Austin and Catellus Development and is centrally located to allow easy access to major employers within the metropolitan area. Situated just two miles from the University of Texas campus and three miles from downtown businesses, Mueller earns high marks for its pedestrian-friendly design and well-planned transportation routes. The development will eventually include over four million square feet of retail and employment opportunities, allowing many residents to live and work in the same area and eliminating lengthy commutes. Austin Energy’s on-site power plant is environmentally advanced and provides green energy for the development.
Mueller offers unique advantages to residents and businesses; as a result, it has gained local support and is considered one of the most innovative and green-friendly projects of its kind anywhere in the United States. Recreational, retail, employment, and residential areas coexist harmoniously and provide a cohesive and sustainable community in the heart of Austin.
The National Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set requirements and standards that all states are legally bound to adhere to, in the Clean Air Act. These are designed to reduce green house emissions from cars, and other modes of transportation. Texas, like every other state, is permitted to set up their own method of [...]
The National Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set requirements and standards that all states are legally bound to adhere to, in the Clean Air Act. These are designed to reduce green house emissions from cars, and other modes of transportation. Texas, like every other state, is permitted to set up their own method of enforcement and focal areas. Annually the EPA will take time to evaluate a state and their policies to make sure they are in line with the anticipated task.
After review this year, the EPA has determined that Texas does not reach the predetermined goals, making numerous violations. The worst offenders are Dallas and Houston which have never fallen within clean air standards. Currently Austin metro area is teetering on the edge of those standards. By regulating vehicle emissions in Travis and Williamson counties, Austin was able to avoid federal clean air management. This year it does not look good, as the requirements have become more stringent. This just means that Texas needs to clear the air on what can and can’t be done to keep it clean.
Currently as a result of this year’s evaluations, Texas officials are working with the EPA to ascertain how to approach this situation and how to maximize efforts to minimize noxious gases in the air. In this effort more than 30 new proposals have been made for the management of emissions from cars and vehicles to businesses and energy factories.
Austin Water Utility Inspector has cleared the way for environmental housing builders to offer a new option to home owners. It is an environmentally friend toilet, one that both saves on drinking water and helps farmers and gardeners develop some of the best fertilizer available. This amazing option is the composting toilet.
This design uses the [...]
Austin Water Utility Inspector has cleared the way for environmental housing builders to offer a new option to home owners. It is an environmentally friend toilet, one that both saves on drinking water and helps farmers and gardeners develop some of the best fertilizer available. This amazing option is the composting toilet.
This is the only composting toilet that I was aware of... until now.
This design uses the alchemy brought by bacteria to transform the human waste into the rich resource rich soil. Some who specialize in this field are referring to it as humanure. This particular design and approval is hailed as the common sense environmental alternative. This mode of waste disposal uses saw dust to flush the waste instead of water. This step saves on or extends the drinking water quality liquid available for washing and drinking. This design also saves on the power required to pump the water, filter, treat and clean the water once it has been used.
As you can see, Austin is stepping up once again as the top green city. Moving toward lowering overall carbon foot print, Austin is enabling home builders and owners to select this new option. As with all forms of sewage facilities, it is regulated by your local city and must be approved on that level. Be sure you check with your local officials regarding regulations.
Forbes once again has to recognize the brilliance that is Austin, Texas. After performing a survey of the most affordable place to live, and the most pleasant on your wallet, Austin took first place. This survey evaluated 4 questions across 50 major metropolitan cities and local vicinities. This makes official what Austenites already knew, you [...]
Forbes once again has to recognize the brilliance that is Austin, Texas. After performing a survey of the most affordable place to live, and the most pleasant on your wallet, Austin took first place. This survey evaluated 4 questions across 50 major metropolitan cities and local vicinities. This makes official what Austenites already knew, you get more value for your dollar in Texas than any other part of the country.
According to Forbes the top 4 criteria include: housing opportunities (homes available for rent or sale), unemployment, average salary, cost of living. Of all of them, Austin rated in the top 25. In the area of unemployment Austin came in as number 1. For housing opportunities they rated as 24, the lowest of the 4 options for Austin. Regarding cost of living, of the 50 cities reviewed, Austin landed at 3 with average salary coming in at 20. This creates a wonderful picture of the grandeur of ‘the weird city’ of Austin, Texas.
As often as Forbes does their surveys, Austin continues to surprise them by topping the lists. From green recognition to best bang for your buck, this is the place to live. Moving to Austin is easier than ever, with the right Realtor. When are ready to move, contact the team here to find your place to live in this wonderful city we call Austin.
As the baby boomer generation, the whole 78 million individuals are reaching retirement age; their lives are lasting much longer than those alive during the time they were born. This means that when they are at retirement age, the homes they have worked so hard to pay for and own, are close to their heart. [...]
As the baby boomer generation, the whole 78 million individuals are reaching retirement age; their lives are lasting much longer than those alive during the time they were born. This means that when they are at retirement age, the homes they have worked so hard to pay for and own, are close to their heart. Thus it is not the will of the vast majority of the baby boomer generation to leave those homes. This means a remodel of the most specific nature in order, to enable their personal safety, and to meet any special needs that may arise.
There are many certified building specialists who concentrate on improving home floor plans, and creating options that will allow people to stay in those homes, or age in place, beyond that some might otherwise expect. Some simple modifications include lifts, wider doorways, ramps, wider more accommodating showers, lower kitchen counters and appliances for wheelchair access when needed. The final goal of any project like this is to enable independence to the home owner.
This kind of project is always a custom project. It requires a builder to inspect the property and meet with the client about their needs. During the building and remodeling process each item will be reviewed prior to installation, this means that there is no set rate or pricing schedule. Each set up and each home will be laid out as needed and prices will be per project. Don’t forget to ask about green upgrades that can be completed and designed to assist the homeowner with rising expenses related to the home.
Austin Energy has a program developed to help residents, business owners and property investors reach for a greener environment. They offer green education programs, assistance and consulting on all levels of real estate. To further show their commitment to the community as a whole they also offer free home energy improvements to those who qualify.
This [...]
Austin Energy has a program developed to help residents, business owners and property investors reach for a greener environment. They offer green education programs, assistance and consulting on all levels of real estate. To further show their commitment to the community as a whole they also offer free home energy improvements to those who qualify.
This program is targeted to the low and moderate income range, and is designed to improve the energy efficiency of the living space. This of course improves the energy costs of the home and enhances the comfort level and lifestyle.
If they need to, Austin Energy will provide and install the needed materials for attic insulation, duct repair and or sealing, plumbing caulking as needed. If need be they will even take time to update the weather stripping around the doors and install solar screens. With these minor changes a home’s energy value can increase dramatically. With Austin Energy’s program, anyone who qualifies can see the benefits rapidly in their bill.
Visit: Austin Energy to see if you qualify.
Today’s links
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From the National Association of REALTORS
Promoting Energy Efficiency in the Nation’s Buildings
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 does much to promote energy efficiency in the nation’s buildings. And tax incentives are among the engines driving the shift. That’s great news for you [...]
Today’s links
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From the National Association of REALTORS
Promoting Energy Efficiency in the Nation’s Buildings
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 does much to promote energy efficiency in the nation’s buildings. And tax incentives are among the engines driving the shift. That’s great news for you and your clients.
Here is a sampling of the new federal incentives as reported by the Tax Incentives Assistance Project.
Residential Buildings
- Energy efficiency incentives for upgrades to existing homes, which cover improvements to building envelope and heating, cooling and water heating equipment, are now available through 2010. The cap has increased to $1,500.
- The existing home incentives are now calculated at 30% of the cost of installation, up to the $1,500 cap. Until further clarification on the legislation, it appears that labor is not included.
- On-site renewable energy systems, including solar photovoltaic and hot water systems, small wind systems and geothermal heat pumps, are eligible for a tax incentive worth 30% of the total cost of the system. There is no cap on the amount.
Commercial Buildings
- A tax deduction of up to $1.80 per square foot is available to owners or tenants of new or existing commercial buildings that are built or reconstructed to save at least 50% of the heating, cooling, ventilation, water heating and interior lighting energy cost of a building that meets ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2001. (The standard provides minimum requirements for the energy-efficient design of buildings).
- Partial deductions of $.60 per square foot are available for improvements to one of three building systems – building envelope, lighting or heating and cooling – that reduces total heating, cooling, ventilation, water heating and interior lighting energy use by 16 2/3% (totaling 50% when applied to all three systems).
- Buildings placed in service between January 1, 2006 and December 31, 2013, and covered by the scope of ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2001 are eligible.
Learn more about the incentives stemming from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and download a matrix of energy efficiency incentives.
Individual states offer additional energy efficiency and renewable energy tax incentives. The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency is a central clearinghouse for them.
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Green Statistics from Mcgraw Hill
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Global: Early adopters are deeply involved in green, with 30% building green on over 60% of their projects in 2008. Over the next five years, more than half (53%) expect to reach this level of involvement. |
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Nonresidential Building: Industry Players in commercial and institutional buildings are getting increasingly active in green building, with those largely dedicated to green building (30% or more of their projects built green) reporting a 50% increase(10 percentage points) from 20% in 2008 to 30% in 2009. |
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Residential Home Builder: Builders heavily involved in green building (60% or more projects green) is expected to also increase from 26% in 2008 to 36% in 2009. |
Statistics taken from McGraw – Hill Construction’s Green Outlook 2009
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