By Bonnie Roseman, November 28, 2022
Portland is a hub of historical homes, with character behind every low gabled roof and foursquare layout. Oh, if those walls could talk! However, Older homes need love, maintenance and to be teased into modernity.
Upgrading our homes to be more energy efficient and user-friendly can be a great creative outlet. Start with small changes that can make a huge difference. Let’s dive into effective and simple ways to support a sustainable home.
Green Home Improvements
The little things often have the largest impact. First, investing in smart technology in your home is a great way to ensure no resources are wasted. One of the most useful items you can buy is a programmable thermostat that monitors your heating and cooling systems. This can be controlled by an app on your phone, so whether you are grabbing a bite to eat in Northeast or shopping along Hawthorne, if you realize you forgot to turn off the heat, you can flip the switch on the go. This will reduce your energy usage and lower your energy bill – a win, win!
Another really easy way to be more sustainable is to switch out old light bulbs for more energy-efficient choices. LED bulbs are eco-friendly and long-lasting, so you’ll end up saving money in the long run by making this switch. I suggest opting for warm-toned LED lights to brighten your home during the overcast months. Ridwell is a fantastic way to recycle the old bulbs.
Continuing with our home tour, did you know you produce the most waste by far in the kitchen? Your kitchen appliances should also be considered when looking for sustainable options in your home. If you have a refrigerator that is over 15 years old, it uses twice as much energy as an energy-star-certified refrigerator. Upgrading to an energy-star certified dishwasher will increase efficiency by at least 12% and only use about 4 gallons of water per wash.
Make Green Life Choices
Regardless of the appliances you have and the upgrades you make to your home, there are also everyday life choices you should be considerate of when trying to live sustainably. For example, only run the washing machine or dishwasher when you have a full load so you’ll save water.
The products you use around your home also make a difference. Use natural cleaning products whenever possible since they do not have harsh chemicals. Choosing to buy food locally from farmer’s markets will help to reduce food packaging while supporting local businesses. Food packaging like plastic wrap and cartons makes up about 45% of landfill materials, so making sure to buy products with little to no packaging will make a huge difference. When you can’t avoid it, recycle the packaging. Ridwell will even take hard to recycle clamshell containers!
Start Today
Living sustainably may seem challenging, but making small changes around your home and in the choices you make each day are great places to start making a difference!
For decades, I have been delighted to assist my clients in navigating the ever-changing housing market: whether selling a first home or the family home, looking for a starter pad or a forever habitat, downsizing, resizing, or buying and selling investment property. Reach out today with any questions or if you’re ready for the next step in your real estate journey.
Thanks for reading 
Bonnie & Team
Bonnie Roseman
Principal Broker | Earth Advantage | ADU Specialist | OR
She/Her
Hello, we’re so glad you’re here! My team and I are ready to answer all of your real estate questions and help you make a move when the time is right...
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- T: 503-515-5973
- bonnie@livingroomre.com
