5 Things to Consider
When Choosing a Sustainable Rental Home.
Photo Credit: Pexels
It can be challenging to practice a sustainable lifestyle when you don't own your home or apartment. You might not be able to install solar panels on the roof or make other significant changes that would reduce your ecological footprint. However, there are still things you can do to ensure your rental is as sustainable as possible. Not only will making your rental more eco-friendly help the planet, but it will also help you save money on your energy bills.
Here, Portland Fashion Week presents five things to consider when choosing a sustainable rental home.
1. Location of the Rental
When looking for a sustainable rental, it's essential to consider the property's location. Ideally, you want to be close to work, shopping, and other amenities. It will help you reduce your carbon footprint by eliminating the need to drive long distances. Living in a walkable or bikeable neighborhood makes it easier to get around without a car, which is good for your health and the environment.
If you’re looking for easy ways to exercise near your new home, check the neighborhood around the listings for those features as well. Is there a park nearby where you can run? Is there space inside where you can complete a workout video without making neighbors mad?
2. Energy-Efficient Features
Consider the energy efficiency of the rental property you're viewing. Many sustainable homes have features that can help you save money on your energy bills. Some typical energy-efficient features include:
Programmable thermostats
High-efficiency appliances
Insulated windows and doors
Energy-efficient lighting
3. Renewable Energy
If you're serious about living sustainably, you may want to look for a rental that uses renewable energy. The property could include solar panels, wind turbines, or other green energy sources. While these features may not be available in all rentals, they're worth looking for if you're interested in being as sustainable as possible. Another option is to contact your utility company to see if it offers green power options.
Maybe there’s a space in the back or front yard where you can start a garden to offset your carbon footprint. These spaces are great for supporting a plant-based diet.
Be sure to also use natural cleaning alternatives in your rental. You will save money and keep toxic chemicals out of your air and the water tables. Simple products like tea tree oil, vinegar, and baking soda can make effective, safe, and renewable cleaning alternatives.
4. Potential for Sustainable Updates
You can do a few things to make your rental home more sustainable. One of the simplest things is to install energy-efficient LED light bulbs. These bulbs use less energy than traditional bulbs, and they last longer, too. You can also install a programmable thermostat to help you save energy on your heating and cooling costs.
If allowed, you can paint your walls with low-VOC paint, caulk air leaks, or install energy-efficient appliances. These updates help make your rental more sustainable and save you money on your energy bills. You also might be able to negotiate certain upgrades with your landlord, and if not, it could be time to consider moving on.
Try putting your top upgrade choices together into a brochure that shows you have done your research. Instead of a formal proposal, a brochure is more brief and accommodates adding creative elements (like pictures or diagrams) that could make your proposal more appealing.
5. Length of Lease
When considering a sustainable rental, consider the lease's length. If you're only looking for a temporary place to live while searching for a more permanent home, you may want to get preapproved for a mortgage. Getting preapproved allows you to figure out how much you can borrow so that you can quickly move if you find a home you love. When the time comes to move, consider using a green moving company that recycles or donates unwanted items to make your move easier.
If you’re looking to stay longer, then make sure that the home has the eco-friendly options you really want to use to support a greener lifestyle before committing. You should also look at comparable rentals in the area to ensure you’re getting a good value for your money, especially if you’re deciding between an apartment or rental house.
Enjoy Sustainable Living in Your Rental Home
Living a sustainable lifestyle doesn't have to be difficult, even if you're renting. When you consider these five factors, you can easily find an eco-friendly rental that suits your needs. Look for a property and a landlord who supports living a green lifestyle and you will be on your way to eco-friendly renting in no time!
Portland Fashion Week is coming soon! Get your tickets today for the event running Sept. 16-22, 2023!