In a recent study by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), in conjunction with Dodge Data & Analytics, single-family builders who self-identified as green builders (building at least half of their projects green) were asked why they choose to build green, and what their top practices and strategies are to improve green home performance.

More than two-thirds of those surveyed said they build green projects because they believe it is the right thing to do. This strong position shows how the green building trend has become more about building homes that have a clean energy footprint for the environment than the use of green terminology for marketing, a practice known as “greenwashing.” 

Other top reasons builders cited include creating healthier homes, meeting market demand and differentiating their product in their local market, which are compelling market opportunities for builders considering entering this market segment.

The biggest goal for all green builders is building homes that are highly energy efficient. As noted in the full report, almost all respondents (91%) are using energy-efficient practices to some extent, whether or not they identify as green, and two-thirds of all builders do so on at least 75% of their homes, illustrating how the mainstream home building industry is increasing the use of green building practices.

Almost half of the green builders say that building a healthier indoor living environment, also known as improving the indoor living environment, is a practice heavily utilized in their projects. Almost 50% of the green builders cite it as a top way to improve green home performance, and two-thirds of all builders are employing strategies to achieve this practice. Over 39% are doing it for 75% of their projects. This is a significant market segment but may also provide opportunity in many areas to differentiate a builder in his/her local market.

The 2020 Green Single Family and Multifamily Homes Smart Market Brief is available at the NAHB website – https://www.nahb.org/Advocacy/Industry-Issues/Sustainability-and-Green-Building/Green-Smartmarket-Reports?_ga=2.66968238.1490863034.1585685584-1394325025.1585685584