Make Your Second Home as Environmentally Friendly as Possible

Is your second home "Green"??



I've recently read some articles arguing that second homes can never be "green" and eco-friendly. At face value this seemed to be correct, but then I started to think about many of the buyers and sellers we've had the pleasure of working with over the years and thought I'd share some of their thoughts and some of my own.

• How often do you use your second home? If it is a family retreat than it may be used on a weekly basis, with many family members and their friends utilizing the space. If it sits empty it probably isn't the best use of resources.


• We recently sold a second home condo in Vermilion that the owner regularly donated to charity auctions. She would allow groups to auction a weekend at her condo - and they benefited from the funds it generated. Fantastic idea - and a responsible use of time the home was sitting empty.


• Frequently the second home is where the old refrigerator, television, sofa, etc. go to finish out their days. Often these are items that would otherwise have been sent to the curb. On island property items are often passed on to other islanders when replaced - the ultimate recycling.


• Energy Efficiency? Make sure you insulate. Turn off all appliances and unplug cords when possible during unused periods.


• If you are vacationing at a second home your aren't hopping on jets and cruise ships. You are generally having a lower negative impact on your surroundings.


• Vacation areas also tend to be bike and walker friendly areas. If you are enjoying a bike ride or a nice walk you aren't driving across town!!


• People tend to be in touch with nature more on vacation. They are looking for stress reduction. They kayak, walk, bike and just sit and enjoy their surroundings more. As a result some of the areas we purchase vacation property are also the areas where land is being preserved. "We want to protect the area because that is why we purchased the property".

If you own are are considering purchasing a second home encourage your association to maintain natural areas. Create water gardens, provide feed and feeder areas, and clear areas unnecessarily. Take a day every couple weeks and pick-up trash as you take your walk. You'll help the environment and feel better about yourself.

Considering a second home? Contact the Hisey Group today at 440-315-6000 or email me at leehisey@howardhanna.com.