Shopping for an energy efficient house? The NorthstarMLS (Multiple Listing Service), the local organization that runs the listing service for buyers and sellers, has started including a "green certification" check box on its online listings 2013, and there's now a new standard for those houses.

The Center for Energy and Environment (CEE), a local non-profit, and Coldwell Banker Burnet have listed the first "Energy Fit" house in the Twin Cities. That house (2626 Zenith Ave. N in Robbinsdale) was bought by CEE and completely retrofitted with a host of improvements aimed at reducing energy costs and making it more comfortable for occupants. Performance testing to make sure the changes were beneficial are part of the drill. The 1,774 square-foot house is on the market for $224,900.

Bruce Erickson, the Coldwell Banker Burnet agent who has the listing, said that homebuyers are increasingly concerned about how much they'll be spending on their utility bills, and he expects the designation to make these houses more marketable.

"Many homebuyers consider the cost of heating and cooling when buying a new house and this can impact the sale price of the home as well as the time spent on the market," said Erickson. "Having Energy Fit Homes on the MLS can not only help buyers in making their final purchasing decisions, it can also allow sellers to get recognition for improvements made to the home," he said.

The Energy Fit Homes concept was launched by CEE in February, and more than 60 houses have been certified. The goal is to double that number by the end of the year. For more information on how to get your home certified, visit www.mnenergyfit.org or call 612.335.3483.