According to a survey of Realtor.com® users, most people would trade their swimming pools for Energy Star appliances and CFL (Compact Fluorescent Lamp) lighting.

The report said in part, "The desire to be eco-friendly has increased dramatically in recent years. We may commemorate Earth Day in April but many people make a concerted effort to go green in large or small ways all year long. And now, in addition to hybrid cars, biodegradable packaging, and recycling efforts, our users are telling us that they are also increasingly eco-minded when it comes to their homes."

More than 30% of the respondents currently live in an eco-friendly residence and nearly 85% of those we surveyed said they would like to own an eco-friendly home.

Eco friendly homes can use "green" building materials, low-VOC paint, high-efficiency water heaters and appliances, insulation and even rainwater collection. For most of us not living in such eco-friendly homes, many are still interested enough to take some conservation steps. The survey reported that 80% have energy-efficient appliances while almost 75% have energy-efficient lighting. Solar power use is reported to be minimal at just 5%.

Buyers feel living in a green home is important, according to Realtor.com® "Nearly 40% of survey respondents told us they would be willing to sacrifice square footage for a more eco-friendly residence. Smaller homes are often greener because they consume less energy and materials. In addition to less space, potential buyers would also be willing to sacrifice other home amenities. A full three quarters of our respondents (75%) would give up the pleasure of their own pool, while 74% would say farewell to the game room."

Respondents surveyed cited money-saving as a factor, believing that an eco-friendly home would add value to the property. 

Realtor.com® concluded, "Eco-friendly homes aren't just good for the environment; they can also be good for our wallets. No wonder then that energy efficiency features were very desirable for our respondents. Energy-efficient air conditioning topped the list at 86% of those surveyed opting for it. Also, 85% wanted energy-efficient appliances, 79% were interested in energy-efficient lighting, and 76% had their heart set on water-conserving appliances."