Here in Asheville, there is a very large interest in second and vacation homes. Asheville , as you can see from the photo I took recenlty, is beautiful! No wonder it tops the Top 10 List in Barron's for places to retire and that is just one publication. Eco-friendly second and vacation homes has been my niche market in the real estate here in Asheville, NC.

Over the years I have noticed that there have been some changes in what buyers of second and/or vacation homes look for! . One in particular seems to be a trend. This is that residential energy efficiency is in high demand. Asheville’s second home owners know that when they can invest in or create a more energy efficient property it adds up to money saved on energy bills. There is the added sense that they can contribute in a positive way to “green awareness.”

Whether YOU are looking to invest in an older home that has been the beneficiary of an eco-friendly remodel, or one that could just use a bit of “sprucing up”, the availability of tax incentives is also something to consider.
Tax Credits: There are a number of tax credits that second home investors may find valuable such as the weatherization programs tailored towards homeowners that seek to upgrade their homes. Here’s an article from the Environmental News Network these about tax credits ( valid for projects completed through December 31, 2010.)market.