How to Boost Your Property’s Value by $118,000 (and Trim Your Power Bills at the Same Time)

When winter hits, there’s nothing better than snuggling up at home with a warm drink. But there’s a chill that’s not so welcome: those rising power bills.

With energy prices tipped to keep climbing, it’s easy to see why more Aussies are actively seeking energy-efficient homes. Recent insights from Domain show that buyers are willing to pay up to 14.5% more for energy-efficient houses and around 12% more for apartments. That’s roughly an extra $118,000 for a house and $75,000 for a unit.

Thinking about selling? Or just want to cut back your energy use? Here’s how to give your home an eco-friendly edge.

Aussie Homes: The Hidden Energy Drainers

It might surprise you, but Australian homes chew through about 24% of the country’s total electricity, according to Domain’s Sustainability in Property report.

It’s not just about leaving the lights on. Most homes across the country aren’t built to keep the heat in during winter or out in summer. That means we rely on heaters and air conditioners to stay comfortable.

Energy-efficient homes are designed to do the opposite. They naturally moderate indoor temperatures, which leads to lower energy bills and a more comfortable living environment all year round.

But here’s the kicker: one in four Australians still lives in a home with zero energy-efficient features.

What Buyers Want (and What Adds Value)

There’s a clear pattern in what today’s buyers are after. According to Domain, features like solar panels, passive design, and double-glazed windows consistently top the wishlist. Not only do they offer a lifestyle upgrade, but they also keep household running costs down.

And if you happen to have a north-facing home, that’s a bonus. North-facing properties take in more natural light and warmth in winter, a highly sought-after trait that only 15% of Aussie homes have.

That said, you don’t need to renovate from top to bottom to improve energy efficiency.

Start small: roof and ceiling insulation alone can slash heating and cooling costs by up to 45%.

Got room for a bigger change? Rooftop solar is becoming more affordable than ever, thanks to government grants and rebates.

And from 1 July 2025, the Cheaper Home Batteries Program will make solar batteries about 30% cheaper to install, helping households store and use more of their solar energy.

Smarter Ways to Fund Your Green Home Upgrades

Looking to make your home more energy-efficient but not sure how to fund it? You’ve got a few smart options at your fingertips.

• Top up your home loan: Your current lender may allow you to tap into your existing equity, giving you access to extra funds for upgrades.
  
  
• Consider a green loan: Some lenders offer loans specifically designed to finance eco-friendly home improvements like solar panels, insulation, and battery storage.
  
  
• Refinance to a better deal: Refinancing your mortgage could reduce your interest rate and unlock equity, giving you the breathing room to invest in energy-efficient features.
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Not only do these upgrades make your home more comfortable and efficient, but they could also significantly increase its value if you ever decide to sell.

At Osinski Finance, we specialise in helping Australians make smart, future-focused financial decisions,  whether that’s applying for a home loan, investing in property, or refinancing your current mortgage. If you’re planning to upgrade your home with energy-efficient features like insulation or solar batteries, we’ll guide you through the best loan options, refinancing strategies, and ways to access your home equity to fund the improvements.

Get in touch today and let’s work together to make your home warmer this winter, cooler in summer, and potentially worth a whole lot more.

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