By Andy Stern

Eco-friendly refurbishment used to seem like an expensive and difficult option, with just a few, usually expensive, eco-friendly products on the market and little demand from buyers or tenants.

The tide is turning, however, and as environmental issues become increasingly acute, and utility bills spiral ever upwards, tenants and buyers are actively seeking sustainable homes.

Buyers are willing to pay up to £15,000 more for an environmentally friendly home, according to research from the Energy Savings Trust.

With fuel costs rising through the roof and the introduction of energy performance certificates, buyers and tenants are ever more aware of the environmental impact of their homes, and developers should note that it really can pay to be green.