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Smart homebuyers, who understand energy features and the value of solar, can take advantage of a "new development discount" on the existing home for sale, or a pre-sale for the 2008 year.
"Zero Energy" (ZEH) and "Near Zero Energy" (NZEH) will offer homebuyers a new category of homes to compare.
It is important for homebuyers to consider the following:
- How much will I be saving on electric costs during years of ownership?
- Am I considering any percentage increase for electric in the future?
- How about the additional value of solar and energy upgrades when I sell my house?
Gainesville Regional Utilities and Florida Power have the highest solar rebates offered in Florida, and adding that to the state rebate, and IRS tax credit, the solar homebuyer walks away with a healthy rebate.
It is also important to know about new changes that have taken place pertaining to solar. For instance, the cost of the solar will be removed from the tax accessed value of your home.
In addition, the conversion to "net metering" is supposed to take place October 1st of 2008.
In addition, the tax assessed value of the property will not include the cost of the solar systems which will reduce the property taxes for the home owner.
The ZEH and NZEH homes are still hooked up to the utility grid for power, and during overcast conditions or different seasons of the year, a homeowner may need some GRU power, but a lot of the time the photo-voltaic solar panels will be providing all the power the homeowner needs, and extra will be sent back to the GRU grid, and credited to the homeowners account. Taking the yearly average, we are trying to accomplish no extra dollars paying for electric.
Standard features in first two homes:
- Solar photovoltaic (electric) system
- 120 gallon solar hot water system
- Lifetime architectural metal roof. Reflective finish to keep the sun’s heat out of the attic.
- Solar panels have a 25 year warranty, and require little maintenance.
- Very high efficiency heating and cooling system
- Sealed and tested duct systems
- Superior insulation package
- Energy star appliances
- Landscaped with water saving irrigation system
- Low energy lighting and low energy fans
- Advanced low-e solar control windows, extended overhangs to keep sun out
- Extensive tile flooring to reduce cooling needs and improve comfort
- Structured wiring package
- Security system
- Natural gas range, and natural gas hookup for dryer
- Real-time energy feedback monitor to help homeowners manage energy use
- Certified Home Energy Rating to verify that energy saving systems have been successfully installed
- Granite countertops, tray ceilings, and decorative accents with the ceramic tile
- All homes accented on exterior will fieldstone siding
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