Gary N Smith.net

Statistics show that lowering home energy usage directly improves value. This notion is supported by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, ENERGY STAR, FHA and VA financing instruments. When you increase the value through energy savings the increase is recognized in the new loan. A potential buyer will consider cost to operate the home, but only if informed. Information and education is the key to using the homes energy consumption as a sales marketing tool.

“Home buyers are finding that they would prefer to spend their housing budget on lower energy costs and features, rather than sacrificing that quality for more space,” said Central MS energy rater and home builder Gary Smith. This sentiment was mirrored in the 2007-2008 Consumer Preferences Survey conducted by the National Association of

ARRA allocated $2.8 million to Mississippi to develop and administer a residential rebate program for the purchase of ENERGY STAR-rated appliances. MDA’s Energy Division will partner with utility companies and retailers to promote the program statewide, encouraging Mississippians to replace existing, energy inefficient appliances with new ones. This rebate program will save energy and stimulate the economy by encouraging consumers to replace old appliances with new ENERGY STAR qualified models.

If you purchase an energy-efficient product or renewable energy system for your home, you may be eligible for a federal tax credit. Please note, not all ENERGY STAR qualified products qualify for a tax credit. ENERGY STAR distinguishes energy efficient products which, although they may cost more to purchase than standard models, will pay you back in lower energy bills within a reasonable amount of time, without a tax credit.