As we see daily news reports of declining home sales, my blog sponsor yesterday released results of a survey that shows how homeowners can increase the odds of selling their home by improving its energy efficiency.

According to the survey, 96 percent of home buyers consider energy efficiency when buying a new home, and 71 percent want a home that reduces their overall impact on the environment. Adding insulation in the attic helps the home seller appeal to both of these criteria. A company news release about the survey includes support from Kirsten Kemp, host of The Learning Channel's Property Ladder, a television show about flipping homes. "Adding insulation to the attic is one of the easiest, most cost-effective ways home owners can make their home more attractive to potential buyers," said Kemp.

Despite home buyer interest in energy-efficient homes, the survey revealed that 78 percent of home owners have added no insulation to their attic because they believe their home already has enough. However, 80 percent of homes built before 1980 are not insulated to government standards. In an effort to help educate consumers, Owens Corning created an energy microsite that addresses the question of insulation levels and energy efficiency in the home.