As you consider, create and proceed through your green plan, here are a few things to keep in mind.

• A green plan does not have to cost more. “You build to the budget,” says O’Brien, “you don’t let it control you.” She suggests implementing strategies that use free services on the site such as sunlight, rain, airflow, and the Earth’s constant temperature; that provide multiple benefits, such as a green roof that provides insulation, stormwater cleansing, heat island tempering and aesthetics; and that use strategies that reduce consumption such as efficient framing, drought-tolerant landscaping and insulation packages.

• A green plan can be successful even if the work is not started from scratch. “Prioritize and phase your improvements,
whether it’s a remodel or new,” says O’Brien. “With our new home, we incorporated a garage design that had a skylight so that when we created a granny flat, we didn’t have to open the roof. We just upgraded our hydronic system and added a preheat solar collector.”

• Be a positive team player. Be proactive, decisive, patient and understanding. Instill open communication among team
members.

• Keep checking the plan and verify that the work is proceeding on track and accomplishing your goals.

• Have fun. Building or remodeling your home can be a fulfilling and inspirational process, says green expert Annette
Stelmack.

• With your green plan successfully completed, learn how to operate your new green home or remodel. The success of a green plan can be greatly affected by your habits and lifestyle. Adding big power users, not programming the programmable thermostat or failing to provide routine maintenance of the home’s systems will not allow the project to operate up to its potential.