Engineering a Greener Home

If you choose to go green, even if you do pay a little more there could be a payoff when you sell. Realtors report that homes with "green" additions are at a premium even in today's slow market.

"There's an impression that to go green you have to be really upscale, because that's what we're seeing in the glossy magazines and TV shows," Alexander says. "But there are some simple things you can do -- smart insulation, finish materials, appliances and colors that can give you what you're looking for."