The Green Appeal of Condo Living in Regina

While we are emerging from an economic downturn, many homebuyers are concerned with saving money and the environment. Buying a condo can meet both needs, and more. First time home buyers and suburban residents are also attracted to condo units in many Canadian cities’ downtown areas, including Regina’s downtown. Having access to the amenities offered downtown (shopping, cafes, public transit) is a major selling point.

Another selling point is the potential for a greener lifestyle and smaller carbon footprint of homeowners in a condo versus a detached single family home. Living in a smaller space is one way to live greener, and having the ability to walk to shopping and other services can also make for a greener lifestyle. Beyond that, there are many other ways condo owners can save money and be eco-friendly at the same time.

Consider that condo owners do not have to worry about exterior painting (and the VOCs from the paint), mowing a lawn (and the emissions from a gas lawn mower), and may be able to live without more than one family car (or even none!) because of the proximity to downtown. The time savings from eliminating a commute, alone, can be astounding, if you happen to live near your workplace, too. In addition, the extra walking or biking condo owners typically do contribute positively to their overall fitness level and health.

As the trend is catching on across major cities in Canada, some condo developments are having multi use residents (residential and commercial) work together, sharing heating/cooling and collecting rainwater for various uses and savings, as well. Some of these projects, like Vancouver’s 37-storey Jameson House building and Montreal’s 28-storey Louis Boheme tower are setting the bar high for new developers to think green.

If you’re in the market or considering purchasing a condo or green home in Regina, give me, Clair Whittington, a call and visit my website for tips on home buying. Backed by Canada’s first eco-broker, Exit Realty Fusion, I am well equipped to be your real estate expert and help you begin to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle!