First U.S. “passive” development in Prospect Heights seeks $1.4M for largest unit

A first-of-its-kind eco-friendly development has officially hit the market in Prospect Heights, Brownstoner reported, lending a glimpse into the price for environmentally conscious homes. Haus 96, located at 96 St. Mark’s Avenue, is the first “passive house” to be built in the U.S., meaning that the project meets the Passive House EnerPHit Certification standards for insulation, ventilation and energy consumption.

The four-story building, which received a nod of approval from Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz, is composed of four units: a three-bedroom apartment on the first floor and three two-bedroom units on the top three floors. The three-bedroom residence is reportedly 1,700 square feet and is listed for $1.4 million. The remaining three units are 1,000 square feet a piece and seek $829,000. The Ken Levenson-designed building will use 60 to 70 percent less energy and 90 percent less heat.

The median sales price per square-foot for a two-bedroom unit in a Prospect Heights new development was a little more than $700 per foot, according to a second-quarter 2012 market report by brokerage MNS, while units greater than 1,500 square feet in new developments commanded about $950 per foot.

Developer Brendan Aguayo purchased the building for $1 million in 2011, according to property records, and he plans to personally broker the project. Another passive house is in the works nearby in Park Slope. [Brownstoner] – Christopher Cameron