Studies Show Better Resale Value for Energy-Efficient Homes

Over the past decade, a number of studies have been conducted that demonstrate the market case of energy-efficient homes and apartments. These studies have shown sale and re-sale price premiums ranging from 2% to 8% in most markets for rated, energy-efficient homes, including ENERGY STAR certified homes. 

In the largest national study to date, economists from the government-backed enterprise Freddie Mac found a 2.7% average sales price premium for rated energy-efficient single-family homes, with more efficient homes selling for a 3-5% premium compared to less efficient rated homes (2013-2017). Source

Several other local/regional studies have also been published linking energy efficiency to higher market valuations, including:

• ENERGY STAR certified homes in Maryland sold from 2012-2015 were found to have a 2-5% sales price premium. Source
   
• In a 2022 study by the Department of Energy's (DOE's) Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, in places where homeowners were required to secure a Home Energy Score™ (HES) before selling their homes, researchers found a 0.5% premium for every 1-point increase in the HES (based on a 10-point scale). Source

• In Austin-Round Rock, TX, ENERGY STAR certified homes sold from 2009-2016 had an average price premium of 6%. Source
   
• In specific markets in Oregon, Idaho, and Washington, price premiums for ENERGY STAR and other certified energy-efficient homes of up to 8% were found in a 2015 study. Source
   
• A 2013 study of certified homes in California found an average sales premium of 2.1%. Source

If you are aware of additional studies that help to demonstrate the connection between energy efficiency and higher home sale prices and valuations, please contact us at energystarhomes@energystar.gov.