The DER project should be undertaken in the context of a comprehensive plan toward a longer-term vision for the building. Goals may not be defined in terms of energy savings alone. Comfort, usability of space, reduced maintenance, aesthetic improvement or changes, etc. may factor into the goals for the building. This guide is directed to homeowners whose long-term goals include high performance in terms of energy, health and safety and durability.

Like any plans for a major journey, the plan for the long term evolution home should include safe stopping points. Few will have resources to take on a comprehensive DER in a single project. For most, an incremental or phased approach is more feasible. This guide includes many suggestions for detailing measures in a way that allows later measures to pick up where earlier measures left off.

Owners of older homes encounter many reasons to make major repairs or improvements. A leaky roof, wet basement, tired siding, desire for more space or more usability of space, etc. might be the motivation for a major renovation project. Significant improvements, maintenance or changes to the building should be seized as opportunities to make steps toward the larger goals for the building. Otherwise, undirected expediency - addressing the most pressing needs with the least costly, least difficult means - might block opportunities thus making it more difficult, and ultimately more costly to progress toward long-term objectives. If there is a plan in place that charts a path toward long-term objectives, the odds are much better that even immediate problems can be addressed in a way that facilitates the next step toward the long-term goals. In plotting the best route to long-term objectives, the order of changes does matter. For some typical building problems or items on the long-term "to do" list, a DER project can be used as a means to address the issue. Other typical problems or potential problems must be addressed before undertaking a DER project.