Green builders struggle
in Austin

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Eco-friendly home builders are taking a big hit during these tough economic times. Green builders, who were at one time red hot, are now just trying to make ends meet. Some of them, who once marketed themselves as environmentally friendly, are staying away from that word, hoping for even more business.

"To do a green project, it does cost more money up front," said Dominique Levesque, another Greathouse owner. "It will give you long term savings, but some people just don't have the money. I have to make money and a living. I would love for everyone to choose green, but I'm not going to turn down a business opportunity."

Torrey Jones is a first time home buyer, who is looking for the right home for his growing family. He has looked at several houses, but fell in love with an eco-friendly home.

"These houses might be a few thousand dollars more, but with the ecologically friendly features, it's ten times that in value," said Jones.

Green Builders, an Austin home building company, is hoping more prospective home buyers think like Jones. The company, which focuses on energy efficiency is having a tough time selling its homes. The unfortunate result has been layoffs.

"To size the company properly for the amount of revenue coming in, unfortunately that means you have to lay people off,""said Clark Wilson, Green Builders CEO.

Last year, the company lost $14.8 million, but Wilson is hopeful things will turn around.

"We're being creative," said Wilson. "We're going to do whatever it takes to be on the field as long as possible sell homes."

For more information, visit the Another Great House Web Site and Green Builders Inc. Web site .