Markets & Economy

Green homes in Houston said to be a priority for home builders

Certification program puts a priority on green features that address Gulf Coast environmental concerns
by Staff Writer
Feb 1
  • Third-party verification is key to consumers when looking for a "green" home.
  • Green features that address extreme heat, humidity and foundational issues are sought after in Houston.
  • GBGC certification adheres to the National Green Building Standard ICC 700.

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Green building is said to account for roughly 30 percent of the nation's residential building sector. Recent survey findings from Dodge Data & Analytics indicate that percentage will rise in the years to come. By 2020, it estimates half of all home builders will construct at least 60 percent of their inventory as green homes. In Houston it appears a number of builders are upping their focus on green home construction. "There will be a strong market demand here in Houston, and we are ready for it,” said Brandon Lynch, president of Houston-based, custom builder Keechi Creek Homes. The use of lighting fixtures that require LED bulbs and the installation of water fixtures that are part of the WaterSense program are two green building implementations Lynch has noticed among Houston builders. Landscaping homes with native plants represents an additional trend. Keechi Creek Homes is one of a consortium of builders that has its new homes certified via Green Built Gulf Coas...