Mainstream Media Is Catching On: Energy Efficient Homes in the Spotlight
We’ve known this for years — but it’s always exciting to see the mainstream media catching up.
ABC News reported on the growing demand for energy efficient homes across Australia, highlighting new findings from Domain showing just how valuable sustainable features have become. Buyers are actively seeking homes with solar panels, double glazing, insulation, and north-facing orientation — and they’re willing to pay a premium for them.
💡 Some key insights:
- Energy efficient homes in Brisbane are attracting up to 20% more views online.
- Buyers are paying up to $300,000 more for efficient homes in some suburbs.
- Homes with north-facing orientation can sell for an average of $375,000 more.
- Listings with energy efficient features get significantly more attention and buyer interest.
Dr Nicola Powell from Domain noted that “middle Australia” is driving this trend — especially with energy prices on the rise and households looking for smarter ways to save long-term. The quote that stuck with us?
“Greener housing is now the mainstream.”
It’s a clear sign that people are no longer treating sustainability as a niche interest or luxury add-on. They’re recognising that energy efficient design leads to:
✅ Lower running costs
✅ Year-round comfort
✅ Better health outcomes (especially in homes with good ventilation and low-tox materials)
✅ And even soundproofing benefits — ideal for noisy neighbourhoods or urban locations.
At reimagined habitat, we’ve seen this shift firsthand. And while media coverage like this is long overdue, it’s encouraging to see more Australians wake up to the value of building better.
If you missed our recent post on why 7-star energy ratings don’t always mean what you think, take a moment to read it here
— we break down the gap between energy ratings and real-world performance, and how Passive House design changes the game.
Let’s hope this growing awareness leads to more policies that support retrofitting older homes and bringing sustainable living to all Australians — renters included.
You can read the news article here.