While 87% agree that green homes cost more than typical homes, 77% believe green homes will hold their value better than traditional homes, and 23% are planning green projects in 2026.  

American Home Shield reports that over the last five years, homeowners have spent an average of $8,735 on green improvements, and 21% said they planned to do a green home improvement project before the IRA tax credits ended at the end of 2025. Still, despite the early cutoff, 23% are planning green projects for this year. The primary motivations for these improvements include: 

1. Cost savings on utilities (80%) 
2. Environmental impact/sustainability (68%) 
3. Personal health and well-being (42%) 
4. Desire for self-sufficiency from the grid (37%) 
5. Increased home value (29%) 

Although the price tag is typically higher for green homes, 91% of green homeowners think it’s worth owning a green home. The survey found that 23% purchased the home already green, and 77% made green improvements after. Of them: 

• 68% have at least one energy efficient appliance 
• 46% only have energy efficient appliances 
• 54% have solar panels 
• 30% have green landscaping  
• 26% have rain barrels 

Of the 74% who said they don’t live in a green home, 64% said they wished they did. What are the top barriers to green homeownership? Most commonly, it’s the cost. 

1. Inability to afford a green home (57%) 
2. Preference toward the comforts of a traditional home (18%) 
3. Belief that a green home isn’t worth the money (15%) 
4. Lack of understanding of the benefits (12%) 

Will green home benefits and concerns about climate change influence future homebuyers’ decisions? According to the survey, the answer for many is “yes.” 

• 56% will buy with climate change in mind 
• 44% plan on buying a green home 
• 39% are unwilling to pay more for a green home 
• 61% are willing to pay an average of $73,827 more for a green home