Energy-efficient homes are on the rise, even in areas like Phoenix where buyers aren’t passionately motivated by “green” features. So how are builders finding ways to get Arizona homebuyers on board with eco-friendly trends? Builder Online recently wrote about how Phoenix-based builder Mandalay Homes has succeeded in becoming one of Arizona’s energy-efficient leaders through educating buyers and providing affordable living opportunities.

The traditional builder was contacted by the city of Phoenix in 2012 to partner on a “zombie development,” abandoned during the recession, in order to rebuild it as a near-net-zero model community. That led to the creation of Gordon Estates on 16th and Apollo streets in South Mountain Village, a community full of energy-efficient homes built using basic technologies, builder-friendly certifications, and an energy rater.

The homes, which range in size between 1,657 and 1,990 square feet, include panel solar energy systems, 14 SEER-rated HVAC units, solar hot water systems, and Energy Star appliances, just to name a few eco-friendly features.

Mandalay is currently on track to build around 200 homes this year and all of them are expected to be certified Zero Energy Ready, a Department of Energy designation to ensure outstanding levels of energy savings, comfort, health, and durability. Currently, the builder has communities with available homes in Carmel Estates in Glendale, South Phoenix Village in Phoenix, and an upcoming community Outlaw at Wickenburg Ranch in Wickenburg.