Trends come and go. In a market where you’re investing in your home, you don’t want to made decisions based on fads, or you might be living with a mistake. Here are some emerging trends in housing that are here to stay. They’ll increase the value of your home, boost satisfaction, and save money in the long run.

LED Lighting

LEDs have improved vastly over the years. Unlike LED bulbs of the past, they come in a variety of color temperatures, have improved brightness, and are significantly are more affordable. These days, LED bulbs and fixtures often offer a higher lumen outputs than their counterparts. They also have a much longer lifespan lasting years longer than previous technologies. All of this while using less energy and none of the toxic metals of CFLs.

Solar Energy

There are various ways that people are becoming more energy efficient. One of them is solar. With the solar tax credit, solar is a great way to improve your home. The sun puts out energy for free every day. Yet still, fossil fuels and other energy sources that are not good for the environment are still used. But one of the reasons that people have been reluctant to get solar is because of the cost.

Today, you can do payment plans on your solar installation that allow you to keep your cash flow. This is attractive to a lot of homeowners because of all the other expenses that might pop up when owning a home. Furthermore, you can put energy back into the grid when you are not using it. That means you get paid to have your own energy that you are not using, unlike electricity.

Windows and Doors

A lot of people don't realize that their windows and doors are such a huge factor in homes. They have a lot to do with how much energy you are paying for. When you run your HVAC, whether it is cold or hot, it can escape easily through certain windows that don't have the right technology.

Older windows have a lot of problems. The seals begin to crack. The entire pane of glass itself might have a leak that ends up causing your money to fly right out the window. Therefore, if you invest in better openings in your home, the HVAC system doesn't have to work as hard, you lose less energy, and you can put your money back into your pocket.

Additionally, windows can add a lot of character to a room, provide comfortable natural light, and give rooms an open spacious feel.

Appliances

Appliances are becoming less and less resource intensive. Not only is this better for the environment, but also saves you money in the long run. An efficient washing machine will use hundreds less gallons of water each year compared to an older one. Less energy and water usage means savings for you.

Any appliance can claim that they are more efficient than the competition. However, certain ones are better. They are run through government testing facilities. That means you can have a higher degree of confidence that the appliances you are buying are not just putting stickers on there. Instead, you know that you will pay less for cooking, heating, or doing other things with your food on a daily basis.

Fads come and go, but these housing trends are here to stay. They save resources, money, and the environment. Consider these upgrades to improve your home and remain happy with the results for years to come!