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Stephanie Edwards-Musa
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I am a licensed real estate agent in the State of Texas as well as a member of the Houston, Texas and National Association of Realtors. On top of that
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Stephanie Edwards-Musa answered:
Hi Frank,
If they are returning your earnest money that is probably the most important part just make sure its in writing and have your agent handle it if you are represented by one.
As a certified EcoBroker and CGP I had a couple of thoughts somewhat unrelated to help find the right home for you:
I do not know what else you are uncomfortable about regarding the energy efficiency but typically it is cheaper to have the radiant barrier and hvac done properly during construction. Remodeling can cost up to 60% more. Also, if you purchase the home to have it done later it will be difficult as the efficiency comes with how the home is constructed. The tax credit for energy efficiency stuff right now from my understanding is a once per lifetime deal.
I suggest finding a builder that builds to a program that tests every home such as Environments for Living, LEED or NAHB Green. Programs such as Energy Star batch test homes meaning often times only 1 in 10 homes are tested. With these other programs you typically also get documentation on how your particular home performs.
These programs rely on not only the hvac and radiant barrier but loss of air through sheathing, ceiling, windows, etc.
I have several resources on my site if you would like to browse. The link is below.
I hope you get your situation worked out and hope you find a highly efficient home!
If they are returning your earnest money that is probably the most important part just make sure its in writing and have your agent handle it if you are represented by one.
As a certified EcoBroker and CGP I had a couple of thoughts somewhat unrelated to help find the right home for you:
I do not know what else you are uncomfortable about regarding the energy efficiency but typically it is cheaper to have the radiant barrier and hvac done properly during construction. Remodeling can cost up to 60% more. Also, if you purchase the home to have it done later it will be difficult as the efficiency comes with how the home is constructed. The tax credit for energy efficiency stuff right now from my understanding is a once per lifetime deal.
I suggest finding a builder that builds to a program that tests every home such as Environments for Living, LEED or NAHB Green. Programs such as Energy Star batch test homes meaning often times only 1 in 10 homes are tested. With these other programs you typically also get documentation on how your particular home performs.
These programs rely on not only the hvac and radiant barrier but loss of air through sheathing, ceiling, windows, etc.
I have several resources on my site if you would like to browse. The link is below.
I hope you get your situation worked out and hope you find a highly efficient home!
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MVPs or 'Most Valuable Players' are key Trulia Voices members who have been contributing high-quality content throughout 2008 and providing valuable advice to consumers and real estate professionals.
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Founding members are a small number of participants who submitted content at launch of Trulia Voices to kick off community discussions.
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