While many environmentally-conscious or "green" updates such as solar panels, wind turbines and geothermal pumps are far too costly for the owner to realize any return on investment, some low-cost items can make a home more desirable. In most cases, the value prospect is that the updates show the owners attention to caring for the property. The owners proactive attitude toward the property will make many buyers see the home as more valuable. If the buyers see more value in the home, they will be more likely to put in a higher offer. Although buyers really don't consider most home updates as "green updates" they really should. Even a traditional-style large-tank hot water heater is much more energy efficient than models made 15 years ago. Any small improvement in energy efficiency adds up over time. So the lower up-front cost items like hot water heaters will provide a faster return on investment than something like a solar cell array.
