Why energy efficiency is 'top of mind' for Canberra home buyers

Home energy efficiency in an environment of rising costs is becoming an increasingly important factor in home buyer decisions.

Domain’s Sustainability in Property 2024 report reveals Canberra leads the country, with two-thirds of homes having “green” features. The report also shows that green homes attract greater buyer interest and sell faster.

Jason Roses of VERV Property, who lists this week’s Whitlam feature property, says potential buyers consider the home’s seven-star EER a big plus.

“Cost of living pressures have definitely moved energy efficiency to top of mind in home buying decisions,” he says. “Buyers are paying more attention to home orientation and the presence of double glazing as big factors in year-round comfort.”

Roses says people are favouring better-designed homes that don’t require 24/7 heating and cooling.

“Energy efficiency is built into these homes to meet higher efficiency standards and they also benefit from modern building techniques and material selections,” he says.

Tim Burke of Luton Properties Weston Creek and Molonglo Valley says there has been a big shift in home buyer sentiment since the EER was first introduced.

“At the time, it wasn’t seen as such a big thing, but it has significantly increased in importance in the intervening years,” he says. “Home buyers definitely see the benefits in cost savings and the comfort factor.”

Burke says anyone who has experienced a low-energy-rated home compared to another with a high rating can instantly appreciate the difference.

“It’s a chalk and cheese experience you can really feel,” he says.

Green home benefits

Energy misers: Big savings can be made with a high EER. Roof and ceiling insulation can save up to 45 per cent on heating and cooling and wall insulation about 15 per cent .

Hip pocket hooray: A seven-star energy rating can save about $450 per year more on heating and cooling costs over its six-star competitor. That’s a big edge for just one star.

Most Valuable Performers (MVP): Many people would think that a hefty rooftop solar system would be highly prized by a home buyer. In fact, first priorities are north-facing orientation and extensive double glazing.

Feature property

Here’s a new build that’s absolutely packed with stars – well, seven of them, to be precise. Yes, this Whitlam two-storey residence has stepped up with a seven-star energy efficiency rating.

At a high level that means year-round comfort and a new best friend for your hip pocket.

It’s bristling with a lot of stuff you largely can’t see, but it all makes the home tick like a Swiss watch in terms of energy efficiency.

View property

What you can see – very clearly – is the difference in your quarterly energy bills. And a 6.6kw solar system on the roof along with double-glazing throughout.

This is a cleverly designed home sitting on an elevated 575-square-metre block with great views – front and back – that delivers 300 square metres under roof.

Parents and downsizers will appreciate a main suite on the lower level, and they will relish its very spacious walk-in wardrobe and luxe en suite with underfloor heating.

The balance of this level is devoted to the kitchen-dining-living and a study. The kitchen appeals with stone benchtops, LED strip lighting and ASKO-branded appliances. That’s backed up by a butler’s pantry with stone benchtops and a sink.

Upstairs are three more bedrooms and a second living space.

Outside, there’s a generous covered timber deck and fully landscaped gardens with irrigation.

The double garage is wired for EV charging and has internal access through a mudroom.