As a NAR Green Designee and an active member of the Green Building Council I wish to share some suggestions on how to expand your green real estate knowledge:
1. Make your listing presentations in a electronic format instead of paper.
2. Network with local organizations that are having events to promote sustainable living practices.
3. Ask your clients of what their Definition of Green is? You would be surprised.
4. Subscribe to newsletters from some of the larger organizations such as Planet Green, Tree Hugger, and Inhabitat.
5. Read magazines like Dwell to check out the latest in sustainable interior design. Granite Countertops though still popular will be passé, the newest trends are in recycled glass, wood, and paper countertops.
6. If you are going to advertise your listings, publish them in magazines or newspapers that use recycled paper or have an FSC seal.
7. Ask sellers what their energy bills are? You would be surprised what green features their home may have and not be aware of it (ex. Double pane windows, Energy Star appliances, solar or tank less water heaters).
8. If you don’t drive a Hybrid that is still okay. I have had my Truck for over 8 years and since more than 50% of Americans lease their cars every 3 years , I am proud to say I have only put 1 carbon emitting vehicle on the road in last 8 years when most others have put 3 or more. That’s sustainability!
