How Do Energy Scores or Green Certifications Affect Resale Value?

Energy efficiency isn’t just a buzzword anymore — it’s becoming a real factor in how homes are valued, marketed, and sold. In 2025, buyers are more conscious about sustainability, long-term costs, and carbon impact than ever before. That shift has made energy scores and green certifications more than just bragging rights — they can directly influence your resale value.

What Are Energy Scores and Green Certifications?

These are standardized ways to rate how efficiently a home uses energy and resources.

Common examples include:

• Home Energy Score (HES): A 1–10 score from the U.S. Department of Energy showing how efficient a home is compared to others.

• ENERGY STAR® certification: Awarded to homes that meet strict energy performance guidelines.

• LEED Certification: Measures sustainability across energy, water, and materials.

• Earth Advantage / Net Zero Ready: Focus on overall sustainability, renewables, and low environmental impact.

In Oregon and other progressive states, Home Energy Scores are increasingly required for listings — especially in cities like Bend and Portland.

How Energy Scores Impact Home Value

1. Higher Buyer Demand = Stronger Resale

A study by Zillow found that homes with eco-friendly features sold for 1–3% more on average.Buyers like the idea of lower utility bills and a “move-in ready” efficient home.

2. Shorter Time on Market

Energy-efficient homes often sell faster. In a 2024 NAR report, homes with HES or ENERGY STAR ratings sold about 18 days faster on average than non-certified properties.

3. Better Appraisal Support

Appraisers are now trained to factor energy upgrades into valuation. If your home has solar, new insulation, or a high HES, you can (and should) request an energy addendum during appraisal.

4. Tax and Financing Advantages

Some buyers qualify for green mortgages or lower insurance rates, which can make your home more appealing.In Oregon, certain utility districts even offer rebates for energy-efficient homes — giving your property an edge.

The ROI of Going Green

Upgrade	Estimated ROI	Extra Benefit
Solar panels	80–100% over 10 years	Lower monthly bills
Energy-efficient windows	60–70%	Improved comfort + resale
Smart thermostat	100%+	Better marketability
Full home energy audit	30–50%	Helps pricing + confidence

Even smaller steps like LED lighting, sealing air leaks, and upgrading insulation can bump your energy score — and subtly boost buyer interest.

What Buyers Are Looking For in 2025

Younger buyers, especially Millennials and Gen Z, consistently rate sustainability and lower long-term costs as top priorities.They may not need a fully net-zero home — but they do want something that feels future-proof.

Key phrases that attract these buyers in listings:

• “Energy-efficient upgrades”

• “Solar-ready” or “battery-ready”

• “Certified green home”

• “Low utility costs”

Energy scores and green certifications aren’t just nice extras anymore — they’re quietly reshaping how buyers perceive value. A well-rated, efficient home can command a premium, sell faster, and appeal to the growing segment of eco-conscious buyers.

FAQs

Q: Is getting a Home Energy Score worth it before selling?

A: Yes — even if your city doesn’t require it, an HES can showcase your home’s efficiency and build buyer confidence.

Q: Do green certifications guarantee a higher price?

A: Not automatically, but they increase buyer demand and shorten time on market — which often leads to stronger offers.

Q: How can I improve my energy score cheaply?

A: Start with insulation, sealing gaps, LED lighting, and a smart thermostat. These are high-impact, low-cost upgrades.

Q: Are buyers in Central Oregon really asking for this?

A: Absolutely. With Bend and Redmond attracting eco-minded transplants and remote workers, energy-efficient homes are becoming a status symbol as much as a smart investment.