Going Green

I admit it: I'm going GREEN(R).

I recently attended NAR's GREEN designation course as an instructor audit, and should receive my certification to teach it shortly. I think this is going to be the NEXT BIG THING for real estate agents. Consumers are becoming more and more aware of energy efficiency, and younger generations are becoming increasingly environmentally consiencious. REALTORS(R) are going to have to get with the program if they hope to remain relevent in today's real estate transaction. Knowing what the client wants is half the battle. What "green" means to you may not be what "green" means to your client. So, straight from the GREEN(R) Designation, here are some questions to help you determine what shade of green you're working with:

What is the primary motivator in terms of your decision to pursue a green home or building?

• Potential operational cost savings?
• Health-related factors?
• Personal lifestyle quality?
• Corporate environmental mentatlity?
• Commitment to a green lifestyle?
• Seems like the latest trend?
• Combination of the above?

What features or factors do you consider most important in terms of a green home or building?

• How would you prioritize these features or factors?
• Are there any features or factors that do not interest you?
• Are there any features or factors that you are skeptical about?
• Are there any nonnegotiable features or factors?

Have you lived or worked in a green home or building before?

• What did you like about the experience?
• What did you dislike?

What is your preference in terms of proximity to the following?

• Public transportation?
• Major highways or thoroughfares?
• Schools?
• Workplaces?
• Shops and commerce?
• Parks?
• Open space?
• Bike and walking trails?

What is your preference in terms of the following:

• Connection to nature?
• Transit-oriented developments?
• Walkability factor?
• Community?
• Proximity to other office buildings or office parks?

Is there a certain aesthetic look and feel you'd like to find?

What is your knoledge base related to green homes and buildings?

Are you interested in a green certified home or building?

Are you interested in performing green renovations or retrofits on an existing home or building?

Are you familiear with potential grants and incntives available?

What are your price parameters? Are you willing to pay more to have green elements included?

Keep in mind that GREEN is not just about the energy efficiency of a home or building. It often includes basic lifestyle philosophies that include a commitment to reducing the use of items that contribute to our carbon footprint like automobiles, water consumption, etc. Clients looking for homes with a green mentality may want to live closer to city centers or neighborhoods within walking or biking distance of amenities and public transportation.