Buy a Net Zero Home
Published on 29 August 2022, 07:22:56 AM
Have a warm, comfortable nest in winter, and cool place to relax in summer when you go green with a net zero home. Your new dwelling is built to last and climate-change ready.
Net zero homes in Ontario are up to 80% more energy efficient than standard dwellings. With all new build construction in Ontario meeting net zero homes energy standards by 2030, you’re
ahead of the curve.
Bonus: your net zero energy home has some of the most modern technologies available. That makes going green easy.
What to know about buying a new construction home.
Pro
What’s Different about a Net Zero Home
What you notice first about your net zero home is how clean and green it is. Paints, surfaces and finishes use low volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making it easier to breathe for buyers with asthma or allergies.
You can feel better about using wood flooring — it comes from sustainable sources — and carpets that are 90% green label. The roof lasts up to 35 years and can be recycled.
Can’t afford all the features you want, like a tankless water heater, just yet? Builders can make your dwelling net zero ready. That lets you increase your home’s energy efficiency as your budget allows.
Check out pilot net zero homes near you, Arcadia Community I, Ottawa, or Falconridge, Guelph.
How to Make a Net Zero Home
Net zero homes in Ontario use only as much energy as they generate. Instead of plugging only into the electrical grid or natural gas, they use renewable sources, like an outdoor heat pump or rooftop solar panels.
They’re super insulated, typically R-60 for roofs and R-34 or up for walls and foundations. Even the concrete slab on the basement floor has rigid foam board insulation under it. Triple-pane windows keep out winter chills and winds.
What happens to the deposit when buying a house.
Your net zero home is quieter because it’s airtight and better insulated than other homes. You breathe in filtered fresh air through heat pump technology, and enjoy energy-saving appliances and faucets. Including battery storage (an add-on cost) allows you to conserve energy to use during power outages, or to charge electric vehicles.
Net Zero Homes Are Worth It
Pros
Your new home is built to last and climate-change ready. Net zero homes:
- are energy efficient
- have lower utility bills
- improve indoor air quality
- and reduce humidity.
It takes all the guesswork out of how to buy new construction homes.
First time home buyer tips.
Cons
- Solar power requires sunshine — rainy or cloudy days draw down on more expensive secondary heat sources.
- Wind-power may be insufficient for your energy needs.
- Like any power system, demand on smart grids can fluctuate — more at peak hours or when demand for vehicle or device charging is at its highest, less in the early hours.
Net Zero Homes and Affordability
By now, you’re likely thinking it sounds great, but how much does it cost to build a net zero house? Net zero homes in Ontario cost 5% to 10% more than traditional new build construction.
To compare, installing solar panels in a traditional home cost about $13,300 in 2022. Custom-built homes in Toronto were $4,305.56 per metre squared. That’s $400 to $900 a square foot, or between $640,000 and $1.4 million for a 1,600 sq. ft. (148.64 m²) dwelling. Add 5% to 10% to those costs for a net zero energy home.
How to cancel an offer to purchase.
Locating Net Zero Homes for Maximum Benefit
Where you site your new home makes all the difference. Trees, the wrong orientation, or nearby neighbours can complicate your builder’s plans.
What to do about new home construction delays.
When heat pumps or electricity are the main energy source, scout out suitable lots that attract more shade than sunlight, or are surrounded by trees. For solar panels, view your lot at various times of day. Your neighbour’s home can cast a long shadow, as can trees, apartment buildings, or the direction your home points.
The right lot may be in a suburb far removed from your job, shopping, and entertainment districts you frequent. Look at transit access or driving times to ensure moving to the suburbs achieves your green goals.
Why You Need a Real Estate Lawyer
Axess Law’s real estate lawyers in Toronto, Greater Toronto Area, or Ottawa review the agreement of purchase and sale for your new build home. We check title to a lot or property you buy, and transfer it to your name.
Do I need a lawyer for new construction closings?
Axess Law’s virtual real estate lawyers can discharge existing mortgages with ease, or arrange for you to sign mortgage insurance documents for high ratio loans from CMHC, Canada Guaranty, or Sagen™.
Our licenced legal professionals liaise with your private lender, bank, or credit union. We answer all your questions, like what is title insurance and more, and deliver documents to you when you just don’t have the time to sign any other way.
How virtual lawyer services work.
Your final statement of adjustments shows all your expenses to purchase your new home. Our fees are all-inclusive, with no extra charges or hidden surprises.
Get Flat Fee Legal Services Near You
Axess Law makes buying net zero homes in Ontario more affordable. You pay less for legal fees, and get only the legal services you need. Our flat fee legal rates start at $999.99 and up plus HST to buy a new construction home or condo.
Online or Phone Bookings for Legal Appointments
Access lawyers anywhere you are in Ontario. Axess Law’s virtual real estate lawyers video conference with you using secure, confidential online software. E-signing is quick and easy, and you get an emailed final copy for your records.
Make day or evening appointments by dropping into any Axess Law office. You can book online, or call our 647-479-0118 lawyer line (toll free to 1-877-402-4207) to find a time that works for you. Booking legal appointments takes just minutes of your day.
Axess Law locations in Ottawa and Greater Toronto Area have onsite parking, and easy transit access.
