According to a review released in January, energy-efficient features add up to nearly 10% to a property’s value.

The University of Wollongong review looked at research from 14 countries and included data from the ACT. This is the only Australian jurisdiction requiring sellers to disclose the energy-efficiency rating of their home.

The review found a 2.4% price premium for a six-star house and a 9.4% premium for a seven-star house compared to a 3-star home. For Australia, with a median house price of $773,635 in late 2019, the ACT results equate to potential price premiums of $18,500 and $72,721.

This means installing energy-saving features is good for your pocket, potentially good for your house value and definitely better for the environment – it’s a win, win every way you look at it!

However, installing solar power or some other energy-efficient features can be costly.

Here are some energy saving features which don’t cost the earth to install, but may just make your property that little bit more desirable if you’re thinking of selling – as well as saving on your pocket:

1. Install ceiling fans

Ceiling fans are cheaper by a long way to run than air conditioners, but is the cost worth the sacrifice of a cooler room? You can compromise and use the two in combination, putting the air conditioner on, and using the fan to circulate the cooler air.

2. Up the insulation

Never underestimate the value of insulation – it keeps you warm and toastie in the winters and repels the heat in the summer. An added bonus is it can also dampen outside noise. Seek advice from a professional as to which type of insulation would best suit your property.

3. Make windows work for you

Many people don’t realise inefficient windows can add up to 40 % to a utility bill. Double glazing is one way to insulate against the heat and cold, but there are some great window films offering a good alternative. Blinds and/or shutters can also help improve efficiency.

4. Keep the draughts out

According to one energy supplier, air leaking into your home can increase your heating and cooling costs by up to 25 %, so check your doors, windows, fixed vents and other draught-prone areas.

5. Energy efficient fittings

Look for toilet, appliances, shower heads, and mixer fittings with high WELS rating. Also consider fitting LED downlights; as well as improving the light in a room, they are also cheaper on the pocket.

If you do decide to go for larger energy-saving installations, always compare upfront costs with ongoing savings; that way you can decide whether you’ll recoup the upfront cost with savings to the utility bill, and/or the potential increase in property value.

If you are looking to sell and would like to know what you can do to enhance your property, get in touch. We provide a free, independent and non-obligatory quotes and our experienced team can give you tips and advice on what you can do to improve your property’s value. Having been in the business for 40 plus years, we’ve helped thousands of people and are constantly achieving great results.

Call in and see us in the Cardiff office or give us a call on 02 4954 8833. Or send us an email to: mail@apnewcastle.com.au – we’d love to hear from you.

And don’t forget to check out our Facebook page for handy tips on selling your property or what to look for when buying a property.