If you're in the market to custom build your next home, consider drawing up some green home plans. Taking an environmentally friendly approach can almost zero-out your monthly utility bills.
Arizona-based Meritage Homes will debut what the company calls "net-zero" homes on Earth Day, Friday, April 22, 2011.
Features of Green Homes
Rows of roof-top solar panels on the homes are expected to produce as much energy as the home owner uses annually, according to a report by USA Today. And, if sunny days abound, the solar power can be stored for a rainy day.
Have you ever been "paid ahead" on your energy bills? Drawing up green home plans is a win-win for the checkbook and the environment since less non-renewable resources are consumed by using solar energy.
Paying for a Green Home
Green home plans from Meritage Homes won't break the bank. Homes in Tucson start at $140,000, while Las Vegas environmentalists can purchase a plan for $160,000.
Bruce Ploeser and his family just purchased a 3,400-square-foot, five-bedroom net-zero Meritage Home in Buckeye, Ariz. for $326,000, reports USA Today.
Your Green Home
Have you personally taken steps to make your home more green? Adding a recycling container to your weekly garbage pick-up, purchasing energy-efficient appliances and replacing television time with an outdoor activity for one hour a day are all environmentally friendly changes.
Even if you aren't in the market to purchase green home plans and build anew, the Earth appreciates every green change you incorporate into your existing living situation. Vow to make your life more green this Earth Day, April 22, 2011.
A home with roof-top solar panels.
Photo by Gray Watson (Wikimedia Commons)
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