Rhapsody Residences, Muntinlupa City, DMCI Homes
Never before has “green” or “environment-friendly” been taken as seriously as people regard it today. It is seen with value and urgency. On the consumers’ end, there is demand. It’s still a long way to go but at least, people have taken notice and “going green” is no longer just perceived as a trend but as a way of life. Even property developers know that “green” is something they have to consider and incorporate in construction and design. A study by the National Association of Realtors showed more and more people want to live in homes and communities that are more resource efficient and more environment-friendly. Nearly nine out of ten home buyers consider heating and cooling costs before purchase. Energy efficiency and long-term savings are the top reasons why people opt for a Mother Nature approved property.
Whether you are buying or renting a property, green is something you should look for. This is especially true for the Philippines where energy costs are rising and weather is becoming even more unpredictable. When hunting for a condo for rent or rent to own condo, look for units with green features or at least plan how you can turn things around and live more sustainably. Ton of benefits await you like more savings and better health to name a few.
Still not convinced? We laid out the reasons for you.
Big Savings
Photo courtesy of succo via Pixabay
You can start with small green updates in your condo. The average Filipino household consumes 350 kWh a month, 42% of which is consumed in the bedroom. Extreme heat and humidity have definitely caused aircon sales to go up. Since condos are not known to have that many big windows, aircon units are a must if you want to fully enjoy condo living. When it comes to aircons, choose the one with energy-saving features and try to compute the cost vis-à-vis estimated hours of use. Use the timer, have it cleaned regularly, and change some parts if necessary. Inspect the insulation of your home so hot air stays outside.
Switching to energy-efficient lighting like LED or CFL bulbs can also save as much as P220/month per bulb. It would also be nice if you let more natural lighting in. You can also try using solar lamps, chargers, and bulbs and see how this can cut down your electricity bill. The general rule for appliances: switch off and unplug when not in use.
You can also purchase an inexpensive toilet tank bank to cut the usage of water per flush by half. Check for possible leaks and invest in a low-flow showerhead.
Breathe Better
Do you remember how the condo you are renting smelled the first time you walked in? That is probably the smell of toxins from paint and other building materials. Did you know that a conventional home that is practically new can be ten times more polluted than outside air? If you find a condo for rent in the Philippines that allows you to have the unit repainted, opt for paint with low volatile organic compounds. Don’t worry, there is a variety of colors to choose from.
Speaking of healthy air, Lumiventt Design Technology helps you breathe better and safer. DMCI Homes uses this technology to allow ambient light and fresh air into their high-rise structures. There are sky patios, high openings for every five floors, breezeways, vents and central garden atriums. This design is not only a feast for the eyes, it is also healthier for the body.
Avoid using cleaners that are made from toxic chemicals. Make your own with just vinegar, baking soda, and lemon. Adding a touch of green like plants and herbs inside the condo will help circulate the air better. Plus, plants make the place look vibrant.
You Will Be More Productive
Yes, a green home and productivity are related. If you are renting a condo, chances are you are a working professional with an office nearby. Choosing to rent a condo that has better air flow will make you more productive according to a study by the U.S. Department of Energy. The research stressed that poor air quality doesn’t only affect one’s health but also poses negative effects to the brain. People who work in an environment with good air quality get more done and took fewer sick leaves.
Encourage Creativity
Photo courtesy of Unsplash via Pixabay
Living in a green home will inspire you to be more creative. Aside from thinking of ways to cut down energy and water costs, you also try to find use for everything that’s been lying around. You learn how to reuse and recycle. You suddenly find value in an empty bottle, used can, and magazine pages.
Value For Your Home
If you bought a condo for purposes of investment, you can increase the property’s value by going green. Energy-saving appliances, recycled but durable building materials for designing your unit, and other energy features increase the value of your home. If you are joining the condo rental market in the Philippines or intend to sell it in the future, you can make savings and better air quality as your selling points. These two things are a luxury in the years to come.
Makes You Feel Better
Going green is doing the right thing. And who doesn’t feel good if he has done something right? By living a sustainable lifestyle, you save resources for future generations. For your information, human development has altered 19% of all coastlines in the world and increased carbon dioxide emissions by 20% from 1990 to 2004. You can’t do anything to bring back what was lost but it isn’t too late to turn things around for our children and our children’s children.
Going green isn’t just a fad. It is necessary and it is urgent. If everyone did their part and start incorporating small green updates at home, the world and the future generations will benefit. It may seem like a small thing now but that will make a whole world of difference someday.
