Home Edition: Energy costs shift home design trends

“New buyers do expect it,” Luna said. “They are pushing for it ... and these additional features may not always add revenue dollars, but buyers are asking for it and builders are accommodating it.”

Features of the most efficient homes combine energy-efficient construction, appliances, lighting and renewable energy systems, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

They also take advantage of local climate and site conditions, such as natural shade, landscaping and the position of the home.

Luna said homeowners with more energy-efficient houses save anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 per year on their electric bill. In Texas, CenterPoint Energy shows that a monthly bill for a 2,000-square-foot home could drop from $170 to below $100 per month.

The cost

Energy-conscious homes often require 2% to 10% higher upfront costs than a standard home build, according to the Department of Energy.

However, despite higher upfront costs, energy-efficient homes often sell faster and at a higher price point, with an additional value of around $5,000 more than a standard home, according to the National Association of Builders.

Current homeowners can also take measures toward creating a more energy-efficient home, including upgrading the HVAC system, sealing the roof and checking doors and windows for weatherstripping.

“Don’t let this sound so scary,” Luna said. “Take it in chunks. You can make little changes with little costs first.”