With utility costs at an all-time high, energy efficiency is now a top priority on most homebuyer's checklists. Doing what you can to improve your home's energy efficiency can drive a nice return on your investment while also reducing your own utility bills. Not to mention a lot of energy-efficient changes are easy, effective, and affordable. If you're looking for ways to make your home more energy efficient this year, here are some tips from our real estate agents:

• Install A New Garage Door
  If you have an unheated attached garage on the ground level of your home, you'd be surprised at how much a new garage door can make a difference. Many older garage door models are poorly insulated. Consider a steel garage door with 3-layer insulation and an R-Value between 9 and 13.
  
  
• Invest In A Programmable Thermostat
  Programmable or smart thermostats can shave several dollars off your monthly utility bill by allowing you to optimize your home's temperature to your schedule. Why waste energy maintaining the ideal temperature when you're not home? With a programmable thermostat, you can keep your temperature on a set schedule or even adjust it from your phone. You can get a good smart thermostat for around $100.
  
  
• Update Your Attic Insulation
  If you're noticing exceptionally high heating or cooling bills, poor attic insulation may be the driver. Attic insulation tends to wear down over time, so if it's been several years, you may want to call a professional contractor to blow in some more insulation.
  
  
• Replace Your Doors
  Doors are one of the leading causes of heat loss. As doors and frames deteriorate over time, it can become increasingly challenging to effectively seal them. Plus, newer doors are designed to be more insulated, and they look good too. Just check out some of the energy-efficient doors on these Cleveland homes for sale.
  
  
• Prioritize Rugs And Curtains
  Rugs and curtains not only act as decorative elements, but they also help to maintain the temperature in your home by providing extra insulation. Go shopping for some stylish rugs and matching thick curtains, and choose patterns and styles that match the rest of your decor.

Doing everything you can to increase your home's energy efficiency will pay off down the road. Contact us today for more home improvement tips.