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Eco-friendly properties, what you need to know before you buy

Eco-friendly properties, what you need to know before you buy

Eco-friendly properties are buildings designed and constructed with the aim of reducing environmental impact. This type of property integrates sustainable practices, construction and operation, to minimise the consumption of natural resources, the emission of polluting gases and the generation of waste. These properties represent a response to the growing concern about climate change and the depletion of natural resources, promoting a more sustainable and conscious lifestyle.

Characteristics of Eco-friendly properties

  • Energy efficiency: One of the most outstanding characteristics of eco-friendly properties is their high energy efficiency. These buildings usually have high quality thermal insulation systems, double-glazed windows and airtight doors to minimise heat loss. They also incorporate technologies such as solar panels, heat pumps and energy-efficient LED lighting systems, which significantly reduce energy costs.

  • Use of renewable energy: Many eco-friendly properties integrate renewable energy sources, such as solar photovoltaic panels and solar thermal systems. They may also use wind or biomass energy, depending on location and climatic conditions. The use of these sources reduces dependence on fossil fuels and carbon dioxide emissions.

  • Sustainable building materials: The choice of sustainable building materials is fundamental to eco-friendly properties. Priority is given to local, recycled or low environmental impact materials, such as certified wood, bamboo, cork, adobe and ecological concrete. In addition, the use of toxic substances is avoided and natural paints and coatings that do not emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chosen.

  • Efficient water management: Eco-friendly properties include systems for efficient water management, such as low-flush toilets, faucets and showers with aerators, and rainwater harvesting systems for irrigation or cleaning. In addition, they can have water reuse systems, which allow the water used in sinks and showers to be used for other non-potable needs, such as garden irrigation.

  • Bioclimatic design: Bioclimatic design is a key strategy in eco-friendly properties, as it takes advantage of the climatic conditions of the environment to improve indoor comfort and reduce energy consumption. This includes orienting the building to maximise natural light, incorporating natural ventilation systems and using elements such as blinds, awnings or trees to provide protection from the heat in summer.

Benefits of Eco-friendly properties

  • Reduced ecological footprint: By using fewer resources and generating fewer emissions, eco-friendly properties contribute to a reduced ecological footprint. This helps to combat climate change and preserve the environment for future generations.

  • Financial savings: Although the initial investment in an eco-friendly property may be higher than in a conventional one, the long-term savings in energy and water consumption are significant. In addition, in many places, eco-friendly properties are eligible for tax incentives, subsidies and tax reductions.

  • Improved health and well-being: Non-toxic materials and improved indoor air quality in eco-friendly properties contribute to the health and well-being of their occupants. Reduced allergens and pollutants can reduce respiratory problems and other ailments.

  • Higher market value: Eco-friendly properties tend to have a higher market value and are more attractive to buyers. The demand for this type of housing is increasing, which can translate into a revaluation of the property over time.

How to make a property eco-friendly

  • Energy improvements: To make an existing property eco-friendly, one of the first steps is to improve its energy efficiency. This can include installing solar panels, improving thermal insulation, replacing heating and cooling systems with more efficient options, and replacing incandescent bulbs with LED lighting.

  • Installing renewable energy systems: Implementing renewable energy systems with solar panels or wind turbines is an effective way to reduce environmental impact and lower energy costs. In addition, in many regions it is possible to sell excess energy generated to the grid.

  • Use of sustainable materials in renovations: When carrying out renovations it is important to choose sustainable materials, this includes the use of non-toxic paints and varnishes, furniture and fittings made from recycled or sustainably sourced materials, and the installation of low environmental impact cladding.

  • Water management: Implementing rainwater harvesting and reuse systems, as well as installing low consumption devices in taps, toilets and showers, can contribute to more efficient water management in the property.

  • Creating green spaces: Incorporating green areas such as gardens, green roofs or green walls not only improves the aesthetic environment, but also helps to regulate temperature, improve air quality and provide habitats for local biodiversity.

Certifications for Eco-friendly properties

There are several certifications that endorse the eco-friendly character of a property. Some of the best known are:

  • LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design): Awarded by the US Green Building Council, this certification evaluates the environmental performance and energy efficiency of buildings.

  • BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method): A British certification that assesses the sustainability of buildings in terms of management, health, energy, transport, water, materials, waste, land use and ecology.

  • Passivhaus: Focuses on energy efficiency, assessing buildings that maintain a comfortable indoor temperature with minimum energy consumption.


Eco-friendly properties are an effective and necessary response to today's environmental challenges. At Noval Properties we take into account the ecological qualities of our projects, in order to generate the least possible impact on the environment and improve the lives of residents.