While LEED guidelines may not make sense on an individual basis, using builders and providers familiar with the latest eco-materials and energy-saving fixtures and systems can go a long way toward constructing an energy-efficient home that will be a pleasure to live in, but also be ahead of the curve in the marketplace.
Kan, who moved from Ruxton, says that while resale value was not his first consideration, he is confident the home will hold its value.
"Even in this market, the resale value is going to go up and not down," he says.
Of the 38 homes slated for Overlook Clipper Mill, 13 have been sold and about five are currently occupied by residents.
"My partner loves coming home from work to this house," says Kan. "Walking into the door at night is an antidote to the stresses of the day."
About LEED
The LEED rating system was established in 2000 by the U.S. Green Building Council, a nonprofit association of building-industry stakeholders such as architects, contractors, materials manufacturers and owners, as well as environmental groups. The LEED criteria are meant to act as a framework for assessing a building's performance in meeting sustainability goals. LEED rating systems are available for new construction, existing buildings, commercial interiors, schools, retail structures and homes. Rating systems are also being created for neighborhood developments and health-care facilities. Certification is generally voluntary.
U.S. Green Building Council, usgbc.org. The Web site has a checklist for LEED homes. It also has a LEED checklist for existing homes for those who want to audit and upgrade their current residence.
Other resources for green building include:
The Green Building Certification Institute, gbci.org/
Green Building Network, www.dnr.state.md.us/ed/mdgbn. This organization was initiated by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and is an informal group of architects, builders, contractors, developers, planners, landscape architects, related professionals and citizens.
Terralogos Eco-Architecture, PC, 1635 E. Baltimore St., Baltimore, 21231, 410-276-8519
