With a highly competitive housing market, sellers are sometimes at a loss as to how to get their home to sell. As the “green initiative” has take the country by storm, playing up the energy efficiency and other green features of a home is a great way to draw more attention to a home that is on the market and increase the chance of selling it at an acceptable price.

Buyers are advised by many professionals to consider the energy efficiency of a home before purchasing, as the cost of energy has been steadily rising in the past years. Savvy sellers are making improvements to their homes prior to putting them on the market, which in turn makes them more appealing to buyers who are energy conscious.

Among the improvements that should be made prior to selling a home is replacing old toilets with energy-efficient models. Also, programmable thermostats, the addition of ceiling fans in many rooms, and adding insulation are also suggested by the experts. Use drought-resistant plants outside to further increase the visual appeal of the home. There are a number of other improvements that can be made, with the help of contractors that specialize in improving energy efficiency.

If cost is a factor, Austin offers homeowners free upgrades for changing out toilets and other features and also gives rebates for purchasing items from their approved lists. Though there may be a few expenses in the lead up to placing your home on the market, selling at a higher price and a potentially faster rate will be worth the money spent.