{"id":108039,"date":"2025-12-01T08:54:13","date_gmt":"2025-12-01T16:54:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/?p=108039"},"modified":"2025-12-01T08:54:15","modified_gmt":"2025-12-01T16:54:15","slug":"what-is-a-sustainable-home","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\/","title":{"rendered":"What is a Sustainable Home?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we talk about sustainable housing today, what we really mean goes far beyond four walls and a roof. We\u2019re talking about homes focused on using energy efficiently, conserving water, reducing waste, choosing eco-friendly materials, and incorporating smart green technologies.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is exactly what sustainable housing aims to deliver. Whether you\u2019re buying your first home in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/17420\/CA\/San-Jose\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\">San Jose, CA<\/a>, or curious about making your next place in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/12839\/DC\/Washington-DC\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\">Washington, D.C.<\/a> more sustainable and responsible, you\u2019re in the right place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-ast-global-color-4-background-color has-background wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In this article:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/><a href=\"#h-what-does-sustainable-housing-really-mean\">What does sustainable housing really mean?<\/a><br \/><a href=\"#h-why-does-a-sustainable-home-matter?\">Why a sustainable home matters<\/a><br \/><a href=\"#h-Types-of-sustainable-homes\">Types of sustainable homes<\/a><br \/><a href=\"#h-Key-features-of-truly-sustainable-homes\">Key features<\/a><br \/><a href=\"#h-How-it-looks-in-practice\">Sustainable home in practice<\/a><br \/><a href=\"#h-Barriers-to-consider-and-how-to-overcome-them\">Barriers<\/a><br \/><a href=\"#h-Programs-and-incentives-that-support-sustainable-housing\">Programs and incentives<\/a><br \/><a href=\"#h-How-you-can-get-involved\">How to get involved<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-does-sustainable-housing-really-mean\">What does sustainable housing really mean?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At its heart, sustainable housing means designing, building, and operating homes so that they use fewer resources, impact our environment less, and create healthier living environments for people.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s not a fancy buzzword \u2014 it\u2019s about choices: the materials used in your walls, how your home uses energy, how water is managed, and how your space supports a lifestyle that <a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-to-reduce-your-carbon-footprint-at-home\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\">reduces your carbon footprint<\/a> on the planet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-does-a-sustainable-home-matter?\">Why does a sustainable home matter?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>For your wallet.<\/strong> Homes built with sustainability in mind typically use less energy and water. That translates into lower utility bills for you.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>For your health.<\/strong> High-quality insulation, good ventilation, and non-toxic materials create a healthier, more comfortable indoor environment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>For your community:<\/strong> Sustainable homes and neighborhoods ease pressure on local infrastructure, like energy grids and water systems, while creating more livable, resilient spaces.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>For the planet.<\/strong> Housing is a major contributor of energy use, carbon emissions, material consumption, and waste. Choosing sustainable housing helps reduce your carbon footprint and support a healthier planet for everyone.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-Types-of-sustainable-homes\">Types of sustainable homes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sustainable homes come in several forms, each aiming to reduce environmental impact and improve comfort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Passive homes<\/strong> use strong insulation and airtight construction to maintain steady indoor temperatures with very little energy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Net zero homes<\/strong> generate as much energy as they use through a blend of efficiency and renewable power.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Solar powered homes<\/strong> rely on solar energy for most of their electricity needs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Homes built with sustainable materials<\/strong> use reclaimed, recycled, or low carbon materials to reduce waste.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Small footprint homes<\/strong> use fewer resources in construction and daily living.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-Key-features-of-truly-sustainable-homes\">Key features of truly sustainable homes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are some core elements that set sustainable homes apart:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Energy efficiency:<\/strong> This might include good insulation, high-performance windows, LED lighting, efficient heating\/cooling systems, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/technology-to-reduce-your-utility-bill\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\">smart technology<\/a>, or maybe even passive solar design.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Renewable energy: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-do-solar-panels-work\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\">Solar panels<\/a>, wind turbines for certain sites, geothermal systems where viable \u2014 generating at least part of your home\u2019s energy without fossil fuels.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Water conservation:<\/strong> Low-flow fixtures, rainwater harvesting, grey-water reuse, landscape design that limits watering needs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sustainable materials: <\/strong>Recycled or reclaimed materials, locally-sourced wood or stone, materials with low embodied carbon, non-toxic finishes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Healthy indoor environment:<\/strong> Proper ventilation, natural daylight, indoor air quality controls, minimal off-gassing materials.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Smart design for long-term use:<\/strong> Homes that are flexible, durable, require less maintenance, adapt as your needs change.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Integration with community and location:<\/strong> Sustainable housing isn\u2019t just about the building itself \u2014 it\u2019s about being well-connected to transit, services, nature, and supporting a resilient neighborhood.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>&gt;&gt; Read: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/sustainable-architecture\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><strong>Sustainable Architecture: Designing an Eco-Friendly Home<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-How-it-looks-in-practice\">How it looks in practice<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let\u2019s look at a real-world scenario.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Imagine a housing development where every home is within walking distance of transit and shops, with solar panels, green roofs, and rainwater irrigation. Inside, energy-efficient appliances, smart lighting and heating, and large windows make homes comfortable and healthy. Residents enjoy lower utility bills, a stronger connection to nature, and a vibrant, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/most-walkable-cities-in-the-us\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\">walkable <\/a>community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now compare that to a typical home. Maybe it has limited daylight, standard <a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/kitchen-updates-how-often-to-replace-appliances\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\">appliances<\/a>, conventional landscaping, and little connection to public transit. Utility bills are higher, and residents miss out on the health, environmental, and community benefits that sustainable design provides. The difference is striking\u2014and shows why sustainable housing isn\u2019t just better for the planet, it\u2019s better for everyday living.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-Barriers-to-consider-and-how-to-overcome-them\">Barriers to consider and how to overcome them<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, sustainable housing is appealing \u2014 but there are some common hurdles:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Higher upfront cost:<\/strong> Building a sustainable or \u201cgreen\u201d home typically carries a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nahb.org\/blog\/2020\/04\/why-building-green-is-worth-the-investment\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><strong>5\u201310% premium<\/strong> over conventional construction<\/a>, however, that higher upfront cost can be offset: green buildings can use <a href=\"https:\/\/www.energy.gov\/sites\/prod\/files\/2013\/11\/f5\/45135-2_appendix-h.pdf\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><strong>30\u201350% less energy<\/strong><\/a> than traditional ones which translates to real savings. In fact, ENERGY STAR\u2013certified homes typically save around <a href=\"https:\/\/www.energystar.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/asset\/document\/NewHomesHPwES.pdf?\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><strong>$447 per year<\/strong><\/a> on energy bills.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Location and infrastructure constraints:<\/strong> Some properties are difficult or expensive to retrofit, and certain areas have zoning rules or outdated utility systems that don\u2019t yet support features like solar panels, rainwater capture, or EV charging.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Maintenance and monitoring:<\/strong> Sustainable features work best when they\u2019re regularly maintained and used as intended. Without proper upkeep or attention to how systems operate, a home may not deliver the energy savings, comfort, or performance it was designed for.<br \/><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The good news, many of these barriers are shifting. Incentive programs are available, builders and designers are gaining experience with green techniques, and the cost of sustainable technologies continues to drop. As more sustainable homes are built, their performance becomes easier to predict and replicate, making green living more accessible than ever.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-Programs-and-incentives-that-support-sustainable-housing\">Programs and incentives that support sustainable housing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are many helpful programs that make sustainable choices easier and more affordable for homeowners. These initiatives vary by region, but most people have access to at least a few of the options below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/tax-benefits-of-owning-a-home\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><strong>Tax benefits<\/strong><\/a> for solar panels, efficient HVAC systems, and high performance windows.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Utility rebates<\/strong> for efficient appliances, insulation upgrades, smart thermostats, and water saving fixtures.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Low interest loans or grants<\/strong> that help cover the cost of energy efficient home improvements.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Net metering programs<\/strong> that give homeowners credits for excess solar energy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Home energy audits<\/strong> that identify simple, cost saving efficiency upgrades.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Green building programs<\/strong> such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/energy-star-certification-for-homeowners\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\">ENERGY STAR<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-leed-certification\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\">LEED<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/passivehouse.com\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\">Passive House<\/a> that improve home performance and long term value.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-How-you-can-get-involved\">How you can get involved&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether you are building a new home, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/why-buy\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\">buying<\/a>, or simply upgrading your current space, there are things you can do to make your home more sustainable:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ask your builder or developer about energy efficiency ratings, renewable energy options, water-saving features and sustainable materials.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you already live in a home, start by upgrading one thing: maybe high efficiency lighting and appliances, maybe sealing and insulating your home, maybe installing a smart thermostat.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Monitor your energy and water usage. Knowing what you use now gives you a baseline so you can measure improvement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Explore financial incentives in your region. Many governments, utilities, and even local organisations offer rebates, tax credits or financing for sustainable home upgrades.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Think about the big picture: location matters. A home with good transit access, walkability, and access to local services often has larger benefits than any single green mechanical component.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Living for a better tomorrow<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sustainable housing is not a luxury reserved for a niche market anymore. It\u2019s quickly becoming the new norm for what a home should be: comfortable, efficient, healthy, and kind to the planet. By understanding the core features, recognizing the benefits, and taking steps, small or large, you can be part of that shift. Your home can be more than just a place to live. It can be a contribution to a future where we all thrive together.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Sustainable housing is more than a trend. It is a thoughtful approach to building and living that supports healthier people and a healthier planet. Explore the core features of eco-friendly homes, learn why these choices matter, and find practical ways to make your own living space more sustainable.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":820,"featured_media":108042,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[34276],"tags":[34529],"coauthors":[36424],"class_list":["post-108039","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-buying-a-home","tag-buying-faq"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v24.7 (Yoast SEO v27.7) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>What is a Sustainable Home? | Redfin<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Discover what sustainable housing really means and why it matters for your health, your wallet, and the planet.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"What is a Sustainable Home?\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Discover what sustainable housing really means and why it matters for your health, your wallet, and the planet.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Redfin | Real Estate Tips for Home Buying, Selling &amp; More\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/redfin\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2025-12-01T16:54:13+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-12-01T16:54:15+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/pexels-kindelmedia-9875415-scaled.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1600\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1200\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Kierra Todd\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@redfin\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@redfin\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Kierra Todd\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"6 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Kierra Todd\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/1509630433c3c220839b18b6dd41add5\"},\"headline\":\"What is a Sustainable Home?\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-12-01T16:54:13+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-12-01T16:54:15+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":1236,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/12\\\/pexels-kindelmedia-9875415-scaled.jpg\",\"keywords\":[\"buying faq\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Buying a Home\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"copyrightYear\":\"2025\",\"copyrightHolder\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/#organization\"}},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\\\/\",\"name\":\"What is a Sustainable Home? | Redfin\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/12\\\/pexels-kindelmedia-9875415-scaled.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-12-01T16:54:13+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-12-01T16:54:15+00:00\",\"description\":\"Discover what sustainable housing really means and why it matters for your health, your wallet, and the planet.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/12\\\/pexels-kindelmedia-9875415-scaled.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/12\\\/pexels-kindelmedia-9875415-scaled.jpg\",\"width\":1600,\"height\":1200,\"caption\":\"man installing solar panel\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"What is a Sustainable Home?\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/\",\"name\":\"Redfin | Real Estate Tips for Home Buying, Selling &amp; More\",\"description\":\"Real estate on Wall Street, Main Street and your street.\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Redfin\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2020\\\/03\\\/Redfin-logo-512x512-1.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2020\\\/03\\\/Redfin-logo-512x512-1.jpg\",\"width\":512,\"height\":512,\"caption\":\"Redfin\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.facebook.com\\\/redfin\",\"https:\\\/\\\/x.com\\\/redfin\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.instagram.com\\\/redfinrealestate\\\/\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.linkedin.com\\\/company\\\/redfin\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.pinterest.com\\\/redfin\\\/\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.youtube.com\\\/channel\\\/UCMIuo1QSGcmWnevT9jdC_Ow\",\"https:\\\/\\\/en.wikipedia.org\\\/wiki\\\/Redfin\"]},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/1509630433c3c220839b18b6dd41add5\",\"name\":\"Kierra Todd\",\"description\":\"Kierra Todd is a content marketing strategist at Redfin, where she crafts engaging stories about shopping for homes and open houses. Originally from Alexandria, VA, she enjoys returning home for special occasions and holidays to spend time with family. Her dream home blends warm, traditional charm with modern design and plenty of space to host friends and loved ones.\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/author\\\/kierra-todd\\\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"What is a Sustainable Home? | Redfin","description":"Discover what sustainable housing really means and why it matters for your health, your wallet, and the planet.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"What is a Sustainable Home?","og_description":"Discover what sustainable housing really means and why it matters for your health, your wallet, and the planet.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\/","og_site_name":"Redfin | Real Estate Tips for Home Buying, Selling &amp; More","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/redfin","article_published_time":"2025-12-01T16:54:13+00:00","article_modified_time":"2025-12-01T16:54:15+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1600,"height":1200,"url":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/pexels-kindelmedia-9875415-scaled.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Kierra Todd","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@redfin","twitter_site":"@redfin","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Kierra Todd","Est. reading time":"6 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\/"},"author":{"name":"Kierra Todd","@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/1509630433c3c220839b18b6dd41add5"},"headline":"What is a Sustainable Home?","datePublished":"2025-12-01T16:54:13+00:00","dateModified":"2025-12-01T16:54:15+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\/"},"wordCount":1236,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/pexels-kindelmedia-9875415-scaled.jpg","keywords":["buying faq"],"articleSection":["Buying a Home"],"inLanguage":"en-US","copyrightYear":"2025","copyrightHolder":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/#organization"}},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\/","url":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\/","name":"What is a Sustainable Home? | Redfin","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/pexels-kindelmedia-9875415-scaled.jpg","datePublished":"2025-12-01T16:54:13+00:00","dateModified":"2025-12-01T16:54:15+00:00","description":"Discover what sustainable housing really means and why it matters for your health, your wallet, and the planet.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/pexels-kindelmedia-9875415-scaled.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/pexels-kindelmedia-9875415-scaled.jpg","width":1600,"height":1200,"caption":"man installing solar panel"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-a-sustainable-home\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"What is a Sustainable Home?"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/","name":"Redfin | Real Estate Tips for Home Buying, Selling &amp; More","description":"Real estate on Wall Street, Main Street and your street.","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/#organization","name":"Redfin","url":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Redfin-logo-512x512-1.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Redfin-logo-512x512-1.jpg","width":512,"height":512,"caption":"Redfin"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/redfin","https:\/\/x.com\/redfin","https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/redfinrealestate\/","https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/redfin","https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/redfin\/","https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCMIuo1QSGcmWnevT9jdC_Ow","https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Redfin"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/1509630433c3c220839b18b6dd41add5","name":"Kierra Todd","description":"Kierra Todd is a content marketing strategist at Redfin, where she crafts engaging stories about shopping for homes and open houses. Originally from Alexandria, VA, she enjoys returning home for special occasions and holidays to spend time with family. Her dream home blends warm, traditional charm with modern design and plenty of space to host friends and loved ones.","url":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/author\/kierra-todd\/"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/108039","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/820"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=108039"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/108039\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":108046,"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/108039\/revisions\/108046"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/108042"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=108039"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=108039"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=108039"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=108039"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}