Any EarthCraft builders here?

[A930Rocket]

Any EarthCraft builders here?

We have taken over a residential/retail project for a bank that has languished for two years. Maybe a fourth or a third of current existing built homes were built under EarthCraft standards. The neighborhood was marketed as an EarthCraft neighborhood.

We are trying to decide if any new homes should be built to EarthCraft stds. I've never had anyone ask for their home to be built to EarthCraft, LEED or any other "green" std in 20 years.

I'm all for being "green", but with money being tight, builders wanting to keep costs down and homes affordable, what is the increase in cost?

[A930Rocket]

Crickets chirping....

[ckissick]

Never heard of EarthCraft. But a friend here in CA built two houses to the highest LEED rating. It cost a lot more, although I don't know how much more, but he thought it would be a great selling point and the mayor would give him the keys to the city.

Potential buyers couldn't care less. They sold at market value and he lost money. And the mayor never even sent a note.

[A930Rocket]

Thanks. That's what I'm thinking.

It may carry weight with certain folks, but it's just not high on their priority list.

[Hetmann]

I would think that energy efficient contstruction would be a selling point. Adhereance to some expensive standard - not so much. I would think buyers are more interested in location and picking their finishes.

[TerryBPP]

Never heard of Earthcraft but definitely heard of LEEDS. I'm certified in it. Makes homes very sellable down here, we did a few whole subdivision using it.

Cost is usually 20% higher to construct than a standard home. The return usually is not worth it long term. Its all about marketing.