Recent research has shown that homes with energy-efficient features sell for more than their non-green competition across the nation. Buyers are willing to spend more upfront on a home that they know will save them money in the long-run. So, if your home is on the market this year and you are looking to set it apart from the rest, here are some relatively inexpensive green upgrades you can make:

• Install a programmable thermostat – The fanciest ones can be purchased for less than $250; are WiFi enabled, user-friendly, intuitive and can be managed from your computer or smartphone from anywhere, allowing you better control over the temperature of your home. These kinds of smart home technologies also impress buyers.
• Buy Energy Star appliances – When it’s time to replace old appliances (those 10 years old or older), you can save big on energy bills by purchasing Energy Star appliances. These shiny, new models are also really impressive to buyers.
• Install water saving features – Reduce water consumption (up to 50 percent!) with aerators or flow restrictors to sink faucets. Remember to keep them clean for the highest level of effectiveness. Install high-efficiency showerheads and dual flush or low-flow toilets in the bathroom. Low-flow toilets use half the water of standard ones.
• Increase curb appeal – Choose native plants in your landscaping. These will hold up the best with the least amount of watering and maintenance, which is a benefit for you as the seller/current homeowner and any future homeowners. Consider planting shade trees near windows to block sunlight during summers (and let sun in during winter when the leaves fall of the trees).