What are “ENERGY STAR” qualified new homes?
In 2005, Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) expanded the ENERGY STAR initiative to include energy-efficient homes.  ENERGY STAR qualified homes are approximately 20% – 30% more efficient than homes built to minimum building code standards.

What’s Involved?
After choosing Donwest’s ENERGY STAR PACKAGE,  a trained, unbiased, qualified inspector conducts a test on your home.  Once this test is completed the inspector provides an EnerGuide label and a homeowner’s report that outlines your home’s level of efficiency. While most new homes receive an energy efficiency rating of 68 or higher your home will receive an energy efficiency rating of 77 or higher.  This means lower monthly energy bills.

The benefits to you are:

• Lower energy bills
• Improved comfort
• Government backed quality assurance
• Lower impact on the environment    -  (reduces greenhouse gas emissions by approximately three tonnes per year)
• Higher resale value

Is there any financial help for new homebuyers?
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) offers a 10% refund on its mortgage loan insurance premium when a borrower buys or builds an energy efficient home. 
Visit CMHC’s web site at chmc.ca or call 1-800-668-2642 for more information.