Choosing between energy efficiency or water savings for green building points?

I get where you're coming from, but I’ve seen a lot of buyers shy away from greywater setups, especially if the local codes are strict or unclear. Sometimes it’s less about the inspector and more about long-term maintenance worries. Energy efficiency upgrades just seem to have broader appeal, at least in my experience. Water savings are great, but they’re still a tougher sell in some regions.

Choosing Between Energy Efficiency Or Water Savings For Green Building Points?

That’s a fair point - greywater systems can definitely be a harder sell, especially in places where the rules are murky or folks worry about upkeep. But I’ve found that if you break down the maintenance steps and provide clear documentation, it helps ease some of those concerns. Still, you’re right that energy upgrades tend to get more attention from buyers. Maybe it’s just easier for people to see the payoff on their bills? Water savings are huge in drought-prone areas, but yeah, not everyone’s convinced yet. I guess it really comes down to local priorities and how much hand-holding you’re willing to do during the sale.

CHOOSING BETWEEN ENERGY EFFICIENCY OR WATER SAVINGS FOR GREEN BUILDING POINTS?

I get where you’re coming from about energy upgrades being the “easier sell,” but honestly, I think water savings are getting overlooked way too often. Maybe it’s just because I’m in an area where water bills are creeping up every year, but the numbers add up fast - especially if you factor in stuff like low-flow fixtures and rainwater catchment, not just greywater. The upfront cost for some of these water-saving systems is actually lower than a lot of energy retrofits, at least from what I’ve priced out.

Plus, energy prices can be all over the place depending on your provider, but water rates only seem to go one direction... up. Maintenance is a fair concern, but honestly, I’ve had more headaches with smart thermostats and solar inverters than with my basic greywater setup. Maybe it’s just me, but I’d rather deal with a filter swap than another firmware update gone wrong. Just my two cents - sometimes the “simple” water solutions end up being less hassle (and cheaper) than people expect.

“I’ve had more headaches with smart thermostats and solar inverters than with my basic greywater setup.”

Funny you mention that - I've seen more than one homeowner ready to toss their “smart” gadgets out the window after a firmware update. Water systems can be refreshingly low-tech by comparison. Still, I do think energy upgrades have their place, especially when you’re dealing with older homes that leak heat like a sieve. But yeah, water savings are often the unsung hero... and nobody likes a surprise water bill.

- Gotta agree with this:

“Water systems can be refreshingly low-tech by comparison.”

- I’ve had my share of “smart” device headaches too - resetting a thermostat at 2am isn’t my idea of progress.
- For my build, I prioritized water savings first. Low-flow fixtures, dual-flush toilets, and a basic greywater loop. Less to break, and the savings show up every month.
- Energy upgrades are great, but if you’re in a mild climate or your house is already decently insulated, water’s where you’ll see more bang for your buck.
- If you’re chasing green points, sometimes the simplest solutions rack up credits without the tech drama.