Nala, going green can entail more costs than older construction. Most new developments go "green" in a big way with special sewers for drain run-off, lots of preserved land and parks, special landscaping that need no pesticides or water and much more. The homes will be built with sustainable materials using less energy and natural resources that also meet FEMA storm requirements. Most of the communities that satisfactorily meet the objectives of green building have CDD (Community District Development) fees. I would look closely at any community stating they are "green" that doesn't have these fees. I'd be happy to explain these fees to you.
Another option is to buy a lot or some land and build your own "green" home. There are a number of builders in the area who are certified to build green homes. You could also buy an older home and rehab it "green".
You might find some interesting information on the following websites:
http://www.greenbuilding.com/
http://www.usgbc.org/
http://www.hgtvpro.com/hpro/green_building/
Feel free to contact me at 904-814-6739 or at mary@marymuldowney.com.
- Sat Oct 31 2009, 07:32