It should! Not all “green building” is created equally, however. When looking at the various components of a green home, we can look for savings in several areas: · Energy efficient wall systems like SIP, Nascor walls, ICFs, and hay bales to name just a few, when combined with well insulated ceilings, can provide insulation and barriers that make good use of the energy the home is using. · Then if you utilize energy efficient wall systems you’ll want highly efficient double or triple pane windows as well so as not to lose the benefits of the walls. Green homes would usually include these items as well: · A high efficiency heating and air conditioning system · Energy Star appliances · LED and other low energy light bulbs Solar, wind, geothermal are other, even more natural ways to “go green” but generally require a heftier up front investment. Going green, when done correctly, is beneficial to our environment and in the longer term … saves you money. Are kit homes & packaged homes really the best for Owner Builders? Answer: First, what is a “KIT HOME”? A Kit Home is basically a home in a box. But, it’s unassembled. You have to build it yourself! Now, just as there are many ways to build a home, there are many types of Kit Homes as well. A few examples include: · Log Kit Homes · SIP Kit Homes · Panelized wall home packages Each type has its own unique advantages depending upon what you want. Should you, as an Owner Builder use a kit home? Well, yes and no. Yes: If you are a DIY Owner Builder, then using a kit home package could save you time and money and give you a better finished product. A top notch Kit Home company, with excellent customer service might be your best bet. No: On the other hand, if you are planning to use contractors to build your home, it’s probably not a good idea. Builders who are not accustomed to these packaged homes will often find fault with the package and increase their fees.