How you could boost your home’s value by $118,000 (and save on bills)

With winter temps falling, chances are your power bills will rise. The focus on energy-efficient home improvements to increase value explains why buyers pay 14% more. Here’s how to give your place a ‘green premium.’

There’s a lot to love about winter – cosy nights indoors, hot chocolate and trips to the snow. However, the season also brings a downside: higher power bills.

With energy costs rising across many parts of the country, home buyers value properties that offer long-term energy savings.

New research by Domain reveals that buyers are willing to pay an average of 14.5% more for energy-efficient houses and 12% more for energy-efficient apartments – equivalent to approximately $118,000 and $75,000 extra, respectively.

If you’re looking to increase comfort, reduce bills and add value to your property, now is the time to consider energy-efficient home improvements.

Our homes can be energy guzzlers

According to Domain’s latest Sustainability in Property report, Australian homes account for approximately one-quarter (24%) of the nation’s total electricity consumption. This high usage is not simply due to forgetfulness in turning off lights.

Experts say many Australian homes suffer poor thermal performance, making them too hot in summer and too cold in winter. As a result, residents often rely on energy-intensive appliances to maintain comfort.

In contrast, energy-efficient homes are designed to minimise power consumption, lower energy bills and improve overall liveability.

Despite these benefits, one-in-four Australians currently reside in a home with zero energy-efficient features, underscoring the significant opportunity for energy-efficient home improvements.

Energy efficient home improvements to increase value and what buyers want

Solar power, passive design elements and double-glazed windows consistently rank among the most sought-after features by home buyers, as they offer both lifestyle benefits and reduced household running costs, according to Domain.

North-facing homes attract higher prices for providing maximised natural light and warmth – yet only 15% of Australian homes face north.

Fortunately, energy-efficient home upgrades can be simple – even if your house doesn’t. Something as simple as roof and ceiling insulation can cut heating and cooling costs by 45%. Bigger investments, such as installing rooftop solar, can be more affordable with the help of government grants, rebates and subsidies.

And from 1 July 2025 the new Cheaper Home Batteries Program can reduce the cost of installing solar batteries by about 30%.

Talk to us to know what’s available

Whatever eco-features you consider, there are various ways you could fund your green improvements.

A home loan top-up with your existing lender could help free up additional funds. Some lenders have ‘green loans’ specifically designed to fund energy-efficient improvements.

You could even save on interest by refinancing to a lower-rate home loan. Use your home equity to improve liveability and increase your property’s value.

Contact our lending specialists today to assist you in securing funding for improved comfort during winter and summer.

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