Canadian Property Buyers Recognize the Need to go Green
The environment is getting a lot of media attention these days. More and more, concerned citizens are demanding eco-friendly options for virtually every consumer product imaginable, and houses are no exception. Yes, even property developers are finding that it is time to get on the environmental safety bandwagon - or be left in the dust.
Cities in Canada encourage earth-friendly growth
In most Canadian cities, planners are realizing that development and environmental awareness go hand in hand when it comes to building cleaner, safer places in which to live and work. The Toronto Economic Development Corporation, for example, is advocating for residential developments that contain appliances that use less water and energy, windows and doors that retain more heat, and that earth-friendly materials are used for construction.
Such upgrades to homes are certainly somewhat more expensive than their more wasteful alternatives and, of course, there was a time when consumers were unwilling to pay extra for these “luxuries.” However, the day has come in which many Canadians will happily pay a premium for environmentally safer options. Why now? It’s simple: with all of the press the Earth has been getting recently regarding its dire environmental circumstances, Canadians are finding themselves with a renewed sense of obligation to take care of the planet, and they’re willing to put their money in to support the effort.
What’s more, people are increasingly realizing that green property makes for a more sound investment because of future law changes and because of the savings to be had in the long run.
Toronto builders join the eco-friendly property effort
Toronto, perhaps Canada’s most famous city, is home to plenty of new development, including a major new residential project by the Monarch Group, due to be completed this spring. Called “Evergreen,” this development consists of a mixture of townhouses and single-family homes, all of which are designed to meet the strictest of efficiency standards.
The prices for these homes are - perhaps surprisingly - quite reasonable, mainly because the Monarch Group believes that the financial responsibility of looking after the environment shouldn’t just be borne by buyers. They are willingly sacrificing what might have been wider profit margins in order to help make Evergreen homes more affordable for consumers. Costs do go up slightly for both buyers and sellers, but for the benefit of the planet and its inhabitants - including, of course, the buyers and sellers of Evergreen properties - and for the peace of mind of knowing that one’s property is in line with future environmental expectations, the expense is certainly worthwhile.
Evergreen’s slogan is: “It’s Our Nature,” and it’s got a dual meaning that many Canadians have taken to heart. More than ever, Canadians are turning to greener properties not just for the healthier living environment and cheaper utility bills, but also because they recognize their vested interest in sustaining the environment that sustains us all.
