Energy efficiency seems to be the new buzz word. Homebuyers are more interested than ever in purchasing an energy efficient home. Now that the warm weather is upon us, buyers will be looking at a home's cooling costs and energy-saving features. I have listed a few simple improvements to help you lower your monthly utility bills and reduce the impact on the environment.

• Contact your utility company to arrange for an energy audit that will show you where your home is energy inefficient.
• Caulk and use weather stripping to fill air leaks around windows and doors. This will minimize the amount of air conditioning needed to cool your home and likewise in the winter minimize the amount of heat needed.
• When choosing new appliances be sure to choose energy-efficient units which will appeal to a buyer's savings on energy costs.
• When installing new windows, double-glazed windows are recommended because they help to insulate the home from both hot and cold weather.

Whether you are selling your own home or buying a new one, we all want to save money. These simple improvements will help you accomplish that.

bhelman@weichert.com