Sustainable Home Checklist: Simple Green. Easy & Economical

Simple Green. Easy & Economical

Anyone can do these.

  • Timers for irrigation and outdoor light systems
  • Rain barrel or water cistern to capture water
  • Organic fertilizers
  • Composting
  • Mulch or wood chips
  • Use of native plants/ Elimination of invasive
  • Group plants by water needs
  • Deep rooted plants (they take less water overall)
  • Reduction of grass size
  • Pest resistant plants
  • Natural animal repellant plants
  • Trees for wind blocking (to prevent soil/mulch erosion) and shade to naturally cool your home.
  • Set mower to 3 inches to allow for pollination
  • Use low VOC paint for less toxic air
  • Recycle old materials, or even old furniture by giving it a facelift or donating instead of tossing.
  • Use HEPA air filters
  • Replace all main lights with LED
  • Use solar or LED for all garden and cafe lighting
  • Install dimmers on lights
  • Utilize motion sensors
  • Power Strips to prevent a phantom load
  • Clean refrigerator coils
  • Weather strip doors
  • Caulk window trim
  • Repair window glazing
  • Putty around window panels
  • Remove shrubs at foundation (anything too close to the house can go into the foundation with its root system)
  • Aerators on faucets
  • Wrap hot water heater, pipes
  • Dual flush toilet controls
  • Fix leaks
  • Low-flow shower head
  • Programmable thermostat (smart thermostat)
  • Thermal drapes (blackout curtains, or UV filtering)
  • Clean air filters often
  • Seal ducts


By Jessica Watts April 18, 2025
As a mom, I've learned one of life's most valuable lessons: knowing when to offer guidance and when to let go. This delicate balance hasn't just made me a better parent—it's become the cornerstone of my approach as your Northern Westchester real estate agent.
By Jessica Watts April 8, 2025
Your yard is an extension of your home and heart.Never Compromise on Outdoor Living As someone who's helped countless families find their perfect home, I've seen firsthand how outdoor spaces transform lives. A yard is where summer barbecues create community bonds, where children build memories that last a lifetime, and where you'll gather for celebrations big and small.
By Jessica Watts April 1, 2025
Tired of crowded parks being your only "nature"? Exhausted from cross-city treks for weekend activities? Craving genuine peace beyond the city hustle? It might be time to look NORTH. The dream many New Yorkers chase seems impossible: genuine connection with nature without sacrificing urban amenities. We love the energy, opportunities, and excitement of Manhattan, but at what cost to our wellbeing? As someone who helps city dwellers find their perfect home in Fairfield and Westchester Counties, I've witnessed countless transformations as people discover they can truly have it all – the accessibility of NYC with the breathing room of northern suburbs.
More Posts