Douglas's Blog

Green Lies

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 12:41:10 -0600

Let me get this out of the way immediately: There is NO government or official definition for the term 'Environmentally Friendly.'

Those two little words have become an industry onto themselves. A marketing tool and claim by advertisers, manufactures and others to sell their products to the uninformed masses that want to do the right thing.

The term 'Greenwash' is now used to describe this type of disinformation.

It leaves an all together nasty taste in the consumer psyche.

I believe most people are enthusiastic and well intentioned when it comes to making a difference regarding their carbon print. However, and I stress this factor, there is no such thing as a free lunch.

It starts at the grocery store (the regular ones or the fancy 'healthy' ones) with the other key word in this "drama" Organic. Ironically enough, here is yet another word that the government has declined to officially define.

So, basically, Organic means :You pay more because we make it sound healthier

Next on the list of culpable words is Sustainability.

Originally it was meant to refer to the quality of a product. However, when it came to selling a green products it suddenly came to mean something that was produced using an equivalent amount of resources to those it consumed.

Think about that. It is simply not possible. But it sounds good, real good.

I have learned that as a Realtor I better understand that I can only use the term Sustainable with careful consideration when referring to a property. If at all.

Another rib tickler is Life-cycle cost. Like in those fancy light bulbs (the same ones that people are just finding out are pretty poisonous and dangerous to change, yeah...those).

If those fancy bulbs cost more to purchase but saves money on each utility bill, its cost over its lifetime may be less than the cheaper bulbs.

The cause that I seem to have taken on upon myself is that consumers have the right to know the ins and outs of this green movement. This is a cause that is in its infancy, and therefore Realtors and Consumers should be able to talk honestly with each other. If we don't know the answer, we can find out. That sounds respectable, and it is the truth.

Or we can make people feel guilty because they do not see the 'organic, sustainable, life-cycle' of this wonderful green property.

Your choice.

I know what I am doing.

Home Green Home

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 12:22:06 -0600

A recent survey by Consumer Reports indicated that while 5% of consumers thought of themselves as Earth Friendly Advocates, 9 out of 10 people considered health and environmental factors as part of their purchasing decision.

Think about that.

5 out of 100 people say they are radically concerned with the environment, and 90 out of a 100 people say the environment and health issues play a major part in their final buying decision.

You can't find worse odds in Vegas.

And yet, for us Realtors at least, there is the answer: It sounds radical, but it feels good.

My approach has always been to equate green environmental issues with money saving healthy alternatives. We are now at the point where 'going green' not only is healthier, but it definitely saves money.

We would all like to believe that all people everywhere want what is best for the planet and the people on it.

That is a luxury that can be considered when all the bills have been paid and you are about to sit down to watch television before going to bed. The reality check is that when you are about to loose your house because you have already lost your job....the only green that matters is money.

And so we come full circle. Going green is about money. Money to support the family, money that saves the environment, money that is tied in with the future.

An environmentally friendly house (or at least a house with green friendly features) will not loose its value the same way your typical McMansion will. And there is the rub.

And then, last but not least, know your stuff.

When asked as to why a house is green in terms of Real Estate, don't say:

"This home is environmentally friendly because it was build by people who care and the architect is a vegetarian."

What people want to hear are facts. So, tell the truth:

"This particular home was build with windows with low-e coatings and has been upgraded with Energy Star appliances. The recycled carpets contain 100% post-consumer content."

And then explain explain explain. Do not assume the customer knows any of those terms (more than likely they do not). And be ready for questions.

And, be prepared to honestly admit you do not know all the answers.

It is a new field for us Realtors as well. And at this point, it is about establishing honesty and trust. Let us learn together. As a former teacher I must admit that there are no stupid questions.

Green is Gold. For both sides of the fence.

Going Green as a cover: The coming Crisis!

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 13:51:50 -0600

I am not a psychic, but I have been blogging about this for over a year now.

I have received some pretty outrageous comments letting me know that I am nothing but negative. How dare I question anybody who says they are going green?

Well, my friends, the facts are becoming quite clear: consumers are not swayed by green labels anymore. They certainly are not impressed by 'advocates' who preach the green lifestyle and drive Hummers to their McMansions.

It took our economy going into the toilet for people to wake up on so many fronts.

It is a fact that when the economy is in trouble people will look for ways to save in all areas of their life. What they will not put up with, however, is being guilted into saving money in order to be better stewards of planet earth. That is a luxury that only works when people have money (and enough free time to feel guilty).

This is the time to show that we who care about the environment are not full of ourselves and that we want to be part of the solution.

Let's face it: The Hammer of Green Guilt just broke.

Even the media is becoming more skeptical (as well they should).

Now is the time to step up and walk the walk.

Before 'going green' turns into a complete sham, let's have open, honest discussions about a problem that will not go away.

Money in the bank is a myth

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 13:36:37 -0500

I have spend the last two days talking with a good friend of mine who just bought a house. His job is to secure loans for people with low income and bad credit. He explained to me his theory of how the banks work.

I know this can't be right. God, please don't let this be right.

Here goes:

When a person goes into a bank and asks for a loan, the bank does not print a new bill or mint a new coin. All that happens is that a person (probably my friend) types the amount of the loan into the person's account.

From that moment on, the person is paying interest to the bank on what is no more than figures typed on a screen.

If, however, the person fails to pay back on that non-existent loan, the bank can -quite legally- come and take your your wealth that does exist: house, car, land and all your possessions.

Did I mention that you are also paying interest on top of all that?

Is that how this works? I am sure I will be blamed for presenting a simpleton version of what happens. But still, is this the meat and bones of this operation?

Please correct me on this.

Because what I see at the moment is a house of cards that is ready to fall at any second.

Oh wait, it already did.

They Shoot Realtors, Don't They?

Thu, 29 May 2008 15:22:34 -0500

I am pretty new at being a Realtor. However, the venom directed at my profession is pretty shocking, still.

The following are excerpts from posts to www.Allrealtorssuck.blogspot.com This is one of many websites that have sprung up in the last three years that allow customers to vent their anger at the people they think are the culprits behind our weak economy.

"Realtors are lazy, worthless scum who collect a huge amount of money for doing nothing."

"All Realtors suck, but you can't blame them....after all the brokers teach them to be the scum they are."

"Realtors are cons and rip offs. They work when they want, not when you want them to."

"There is no more low down human being than a Realtor. What do they really do to justify their huge cuts? Drive up the prices of real estate and refuse to negotiate their fees to make a deal work. They are greedy and unprofessional and lazy too. I hate them all."

"All Realtors suck!!!! I have a hard time believing that they can be all liars, but they are slowly but surely proving to be. Liars...they are simply crooks that are too lazy to steal."

Well, this made me ask questions to the people in my office. Almost all Realtors were outraged that I would even dare suggest that they were less than honest.

Ok, so who is at fault?

And then it dawned on me that I really did not have a handle on what brought about the crisis we are in. I have come up with the following explanation after a lot of research. Please correct me if I am wrong.

1. Banks gave money away (loans) to poor people.

2. This process was done using 'financial instruments' that were not regulated.

3. It turns out banks (because of the lack of accounting rules) were closer to insolvency (or ability to back up loan by cash) then anybody knew.

4. Once the States realized what was going on they were unable to stop the banks because of "The Office Of the Comptroller of The Currency." This 'office' was a government agency approved by congress. This not only emboldened the banks, but it also allowed them to shift the burden of guilt.

5. Congress, it turns out, is 'assisted' through campaign contributions by the banks and brokers whose wealth depends on fending off the financial police.

6. As of now, the big banks....with the permission/and or desire to look away from the treasury department.....are being allowed - on their own - to decide how much safety capital they should hold.

7. This is the reason we are in the trouble we are in, to begin with.

If this is the case, and if we take in account that every profession has its share of crooks and slimeballs, why are Realtors the chosen whipping boys(and girls?).

Then, as in my case, add the innovative idea of being a Green Realtor and you become a walking target for BOTH customers AND Realtors.

What exactly is going on here?

I would really like input on what I think is a delicate topic. And please, I know Realtors can be greedy (hell, I have felt greedy myself). It has to be more than that. It has to go deeper.

In the current Zeitgeist, Realtors appear to do what they are supposed to do - exude professionalism, demonstrate kindness and confidence, negotiate the best deal. And yet, for an immediate conversation starter bring up a story (any story) about a Realtor.

Not a pretty sight. Trust me.

No Turn Unstoned! My critics speak.

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 13:43:02 -0500

Yes, well. Here I have been making friends and fans all along.

Not!

My last entry I'm Organic...Eat me!prompted two phone calls from Active Rain Morality Leaders. I was told that my choice of title was "disgusting," and they were horrified that it was in THEIR group.

I pointed out that it was an example of irony. Of course you had to read the entry to get it.

One of the callers had NOT READ the post. So much for a judgement call.

So, in keeping with the proceedings, I have collected some of the more interesting 'bits of encouragement' I have received so far.

Here, for your reading pleasure:

"Being Green IS about politics. Are you that naive?"

"I know so many people that are fed up with the green movement. This is just like politics. I keep it out of my real estate conversations."

"This just doesn't work! Folks in Africa have made and make socioeconomic, religious and political choices that make them victims. Americans didn't make decisions for them. And we are not responsible for their plight. I won't be send on a guilt trip because I am an American."

"I don't know, it sound's like politics. Do as we say or else. It has nothing to do with selling houses."

"A little full of ourselves, aren't we?"

"This is a bunch of Bulll#%*@ You are not convincing me at all!"

"Not every scientist believes the world is about to explode. It's all DRAMA!"

"Shock value and scare tactics."

"So, who died and made you guardian of the planet? A Realtor who cares about the environment? Yeah, like a used car salesman who cares about gas mileage. You are so clever."

Intermission

I made a choice from the get- go not to edit or delete comments. Believe it or not, I like strong opinions.

I am also assuming that most of these comments come from fellow Realtors. Which, if you think about it, is even scarier!

Saving the best for last

I will end this with my absolute favorite comment. Talk about irony!

"You look so hot in your picture that your very existence must be worsening global warming!"

Ha, so there!

Best of luck and Go Green.

I'm Organic...EAT ME!

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 14:54:58 -0500

You know, I went and did my homework on this one. I found all kinds of amazing scary facts. I even got a chance to talk to somebody who works at the USDA.

I wrote and rewrote this entry at least three times.

I managed to make a clear and consistent connection between public trust and Green Realtors.

I even came up with a catchy title.

This would have been a daring, gutsy blog entry. However, I have decided to back down. In the end, the information I gathered is too shocking. It would have, I believe, made me a target for legal trouble as well.

What I will do, on the other hand, I will email my resources to anybody who wants the information. The only pertinent information I will not share is the name of the person I spoke to at the USDA.

I will also tell you why you, on your own, should do some investigating:

*The Organic Industry is a 16 Billion dollar business.

*People believe that when they buy something that is labeled Organic they are actually getting something that is more nutritious, safer, tastier, and better for the environment. I have found evidence to the contrary for ALL of these claims.

*I was shocked to find out that the USDA had changed its definition of Organic at least twice in the last 10 years. Each definition becoming more vague and philosophical. Each definition obviously written by lawyers (not farmers) who made sure that there were glaring loopholes for future changes.

I am an avid reader of Consumer Reports, and it behooves you as well, to find out what they have said about this particular issue as well. I am sad to note, however, that even they have seemed to back down a little.

It is easy to label yourself and your service Green Friendly.

I wish I could end this on a more positive note. There are solutions out there. But when I look at the word Organic, I am compelled to come up with my own definition: We allow you to pay more.

There are radical, hate filled groups out there like E.L.F (Environmental Liberation Front). E.L.F was responsible for the destruction of several homes that had been labeled Environmentally Friendly.

To E.L.F these houses were McMansions with a green coating.

And yet, isn't it interesting?

What it appears E.L.F objected more than anything was what they felt was a misplaced definition.

Hmmm?

Best of luck and go Green (honestly so).

Why should I give a green damn?

Fri, 15 Feb 2008 15:06:03 -0600

Well, I am back. I took a little break to recharge my batteries and ponder about the negative reactions I have gotten in regards to my wanting to be a earth friendly green Realtor.

As a former teacher I have always believed the truth is easier to read in a rejection than in praise (no matter how glorious).

And the truth is: My customers are more than interested in going green and what it all entails. They are holding on to the idea that healthy is green and green is better. Most of them do not believe buying green or turning a house into a green haven is more expensive. They see the long term benefits (health, earth guardianship and promoting awareness) as more beneficial.

The most interesting remarks have come from fellow Realtors. Granted, not all of the negative backlash is from Realtors. But I would say well over 50%.

Going green keeps being compared to a quasi-religion, a kooky earth-movement, a meaningless political ploy. And to some, that is exactly what it is and how it is being used. Notice how all the candidates are 'green friendly' yet they all live like Kings in Queens?

I believe green Realtors cut overall costs, attract customers and help the earth, too.

Apart from a physical footprint that I can be proud of, I have a good opportunity to have an environmental impact through green policies that can change the behaviors and attitudes of homeowners.

How sweet is that?

Green begets green (money is green, so are plants...both valuable to all of us).

Keep it green and keep educating yourself.

Douglas

Green Guilt turns into Self-Righteous Anger

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 23:50:27 -0500

Not so? Read some of the responses on my other blog and you will see a pattern:

http://activerain.com/action/blogsview/177037/The-3-Minute-Green

Why, insist some readers, are they being guilted into going green? Why do I insist on sharing these awful statistics about waste in the United States? And besides, who really cares about Africa

Another interesting angle is the suggestion that turning our backs on conventional business will hurt the economy.

And how about this one: Being earth friendly is a virtue NOT an obligation.

Let me do some dime-store psychology – It seems to me that guilt of neglect turns into self-righteous anger.

Let me address one issue: The Economy.

A shift in consumer’s loyalties is typical, and acknowledged as healthy, in a market economy. Demands for new products and services give rise to new markets. This brings about innovation, competition, investment, market growth, and jobs.

How about that?

As a Green Realtor I see a market that is being reinvented before my very own eyes. The idea I bring to the table is that I am selling a farm, not just a house. I am concerned about the condition of the land, water, and air quality (indoor and outdoor).

Is it hypocritical to advocate and try to practice environmental friendly behavior in some but not all areas of my life?

Hey, I am human.

I like to share my journey. I also welcome the criticism. It is a good indicator as to whether I have hit a nerve or not.

The challenge is this: Is it guilt or is it fear?

We fear what we do not completely understand.

With new knowledge and a much better appreciation and respect for the environment we can begin to implement changes.

Turn that frown upside down and let’s make a difference

Best of luck and Go Green. Douglas.

Green Laundry Room 101

Sat, 20 Oct 2007 01:58:55 -0500

One of the more interesting ironies that I have discovered in my green-journey is that ‘cleaning products’ cause the most damage and waste.

Think about that for a second.

Many of the products we use to clean our surroundings, our clothes, and our daily utensils are filled with harsh, dangerous chemicals that are directly linked to many diseases.

That’s not to mention what it is doing to the environment.

This entry is about saving money by taking small steps toward making better, earth friendly decisions. Consumers have the right to seek out and purchase eco-friendly products. These items, however, are not always at the supermarket.

Let’s thank Al Gore for inventing the Internet (!). It is on the web where you will find all you need.

Now, to air the dirty laundry:

Use oxygen or hydrogen-based bleaches instead of chlorine bleach.
Read the labels on ALL cleaning products. One of the links I include explains all the chemicals and what possible harm they can do.
Make your own, safe all natural household cleaners. Again, one of the links will show you how.
Buy a front-loading washing machine. They save both water and energy.
Only wash full loads of laundry.

This is the most important link. It will explain all labels and the risk of exposure.

Epa.gov/grtlakes/seahome/housewaste/house/products.htm

As well as:

Es.epa.gov/techinfo/facts/safe-fs.html

Best of luck and go Green,

Douglas

Green Pets 101

Sat, 20 Oct 2007 01:39:50 -0500

If I can’t reach you by showing you how to save money by implementing going-green ideas, maybe I can make a dent by sharing with you how to improve the quality of your pet’s life.

Yes, pets can go green, too.

And they need it. Actually, it is their nature to be connected to the earth. Consumer living with its fast tempo and chemically induced food and medicines have greatly upset the natural life cycle of all animals in this country.

For this particular blog, I won’t give out any tips. However, I will share with you all my resources on the topic. I do not know what kind of pet you have, and I do not want to come across as though I believe one type of animal is more important or worthy than another one.

I thank Chrissy Trask and her book It’s Easy Being Green for this valuable information.

http://www.naturalpetmarket.com/

http://www.naturespet.com/

http://www.onlynaturalpet.com/

http://www.epetfood.com/

http://www.eaglepack.com/

http://www.naturalbalanceinc.com/

I remember reading once that the cancer rate in household pets is beginning to catch up with their owners. Is it because they basically eat the same garbage we do?

Food for thought?

Best of luck and go Green.

Douglas

When did Going Green become a Political Issue?

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 23:28:49 -0500

Wanting to become aware of the carbon prints we leave behind comes with age. I couldn't have cared less 10 years ago. Actually, the people who were talking about green issues sounded a little nuts to begin with.

And now, at 41 years of age, I feel I am finally ready to take a good look at some of my actions. Am I a mindless consumer that buys and throws away without any regard for future consequences? I have been, I still am today, and hopefully soon I will be able to tell you a different story.

As with anything, there is a price to pay in the public arena. Nowadays, the green movement is not seen as a ragtag group of loons, but rather as a well organized left-inclined political movement with a definite agenda. The agenda can be anything you want it to be, it will fit with any conspiracy theory as well as with all saving-the-earth movements.

It seems to me that by choosing to care for the planet you have to make a political and ideological leap. By pointing out issues that should alarm all of us (excessive waste, pollution, global warming) I seem to have entered a debate that allows no gray area.

Granted, some of the loudest voices -on both sides of this debate - seem to indicate that this more than just being good to one another. Who cares? Really, this is a personal choice.

My choice.

As a Realtor I want to implement my passion and at the same time maybe help change the problematic Realtor image. Problematic in the sense that Realtors should be at the forefront of the movement, and yet they are not. We are selling people not just a house, but an environment. I think of every house as a farm, with water and electricity and land. I want to make sure the land, water and air quality (indoor and outdoors) is as healthy as possible.

It is the least I can do.

Too much work? Changing markets bring about a change in strategy. Why not let it be a change that makes everybody feel good. Not just a blatant money grabbing device.

You know, I don't think it is a crime not to know, but there is something wrong when you know and decide to ignore it. It is beyond denial.

Best of luck and go green.

Douglas

Green Garden 101: Xeriscape

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 20:48:02 -0500

With drinking water becoming more of a commodity in our lives, it is great to see a pro-active approach towards utilizing it to its maximum potential. Texas is the place where an interesting new system called Xeriscape comes from.

The approach is simple. And this is the key, so much of the information we receive from Environmentalists is dry, obtuse information that doesn’t take our daily life into account. So my goal is to introduce you to this wonderful program in a simple manner as well.

The whole idea behind the program is to utilize water in an effective, non-wasteful manner.

Xeriscape Landscaping incorporates seven basic principles which lead to saving water, they are:

Planning and Design: Take a good look at your lawn. Consider the landscape budget, appearance, function, maintenance and water requirements. Instead of watering the whole lawn blindly, realize that some spots require much less water.
Soil Analysis: This will determine whether soil improvement is needed for better water absorption and improved water-holding quality. In other words, is the soil actually absorbing and storing the water?
Practical Turf Areas: The suggestion is that turf grasses be used as a planned element in the landscape. Turf grasses by definition require little water and take a beating from the sun, examples are: Zozsiagrass, buffalograss and centipede grass. There are many varieties and they are all a nice shade of green.
Appropriate Plant Selection: This one is a no-brainer. The right plant keeps the landscape more in tune with the natural environment. Both native and exotic plants make up the huge variety of plants available for Xeriscape landscaping. Again, native plants have shown their ability to survive in the given environment. They will help you conserve water.
Efficient Irrigation: By using the right type of irrigation, you can instantly save 30 to 50 percent on your water bill. The truth is most water is lost to runoff by being applied too rapidly. Plants drink very slowly (unlike humans), so to them a drip every couple of seconds is just fine. Everything else is like a bucket of water on the head. Are you beginning to see the picture now: Plants that require little water, the right irrigation….more green in the pocket!
Use of Mulches: Just an extra helper in keeping the water around the plant, allowing them to drink at their leisure. It also prevents instant evaporation during the really hot months.
Appropriate Maintenance: Easy. Pruning, weeding, proper fertilization, pest control and irrigation all conserve water.

Xeriscape landscapes do not need to be cactus and rock gardens, like my detractors would probably like to point out. To the contrary, they are green, cool landscapes full of beautiful plants maintained with water saving practices.

So get to it, Google Xeriscape, follow the plan, and save water and money.

Best of luck and go Green,

Douglas B. Garbe, Eco-Realtor

Green Kitchen 101

Wed, 05 Sep 2007 13:14:05 -0500

The idea of greening up sounds so overwhelming yet is so simple. The whole point of my blogs is that going green saves you green. It is not a matter of getting less, but of getting more out of what you already have.

Which saves you money….which helps the environment.

So let us start with the kitchen:

If you are concerned about drinking water, buy a water filtration system. Say no to expensive bottled water.
Cloth napkins instead of paper. They can be used several times before washing.
Use less single-serve or single-use products. Usually these products are more than 50% packaging.
Therefore, buy in bulk. Avoiding useless packaging.
Always cover your pots when cooking. It actually speeds up the process and saves you energy.
Let foods cool before putting them in the refrigerator, so as not to raise internal temperature.

If followed through for a whole year, the above six tips save the average home around $750.00 a year.

And that is just the kitchen. The rest of the house will soon follow, stay tuned.

*Source: It’s easy being green, by Crissy Trask. Gibbs Smith, Publisher, 2006

Best of luck and go Green,

Douglas B. Garbe, Eco-Realtor

Why Eco-Friendly?

Fri, 17 Aug 2007 17:49:38 -0500

Why not?

Even a home's position against the sun and wind can affect its electrical bill upward to 25%.

Are there trees around your house?

You could reduce your annual cooling costs by another 25% planting leafy trees to shade your house.

Is your house on a sloped site?

Try maintaining natural hillside vegetation, and using trees, native shrubs and ground cover as landscaping. Save money and energy by this doing before erosion sets it.

Did you know that each day more solar energy falls to earth than the total amount of energy the planet's 6 billion people could consume in 10 years?!!

How much of that free ride are you catching?

To me going Green is not an issue, it is a reality.

We are going green or we are going brown (read into that what you want).

As a Realtor in a changing market, I will not hide my head in the sand and wait for this 'global warming' thing to pass.

The new breed of Home Owners are smarter than ever before.

They expect the same from us.

I like that.

It's smart business.

It's Eco-friendly.

It's good for all of us.

Best of luck, and go Green.

Douglas B. Garbe, Eco-Realtor

The big picture (yep, it's Green).

Fri, 17 Aug 2007 17:38:30 -0500

You try selling a beautiful home that is situated on polluted land next to a landfill adjacent to a dead lake.

Oh, did I mention that the air unbreathable?

Science Fiction?

Welcome to Mexico City! It's happening in China as well.

Oh you say, it could not happen here.

Two words: Love Canal.

Do you know that over the course of your life you will create six hundred times your adult weight in garbage?

That's roughly about 90 thousand pounds of trash per person.

And yet, even though these numbers are seemingly overwhelming, people don't realize how little it takes to change our world for the better.

Now try selling the house I mentioned earlier with Solar Panels, Energy Star Appliances, Low-Flow Plumbing and Insulated Wall Panels.

The results?

They are practically the only houses being sold in Mexico City.

Global warming is real, and maybe it does not affect the Real Estate Market directly today.

But it will one day, probably sooner than you think.

Everything comes full circle.

Best of Luck, and go Green.

Douglas B. Garbe, Eco-Realtor.

The Color of Sales

Fri, 17 Aug 2007 17:28:30 -0500

Let's see, there are about 1.6 Billion houses in the world, about 100 million in the United States alone.

The harsh reality facing all of us is that by 2025 the world must increase its water supply by 22% meet its needs.

Yet 40% of all drinking water is still FLUSHED DOWN THE TOILETS!

1. Food is being sold to us on the premise that it is healthy

2. Appliances are being sold to us on the premise that they conserve energy

3. Cars are being sold to us on the premise that they are good for the environment

But what about the houses? The place where we eat those healthy foods, where we store the food in the energy saving appliances, and where we keep the Eco-friendly car that takes us to the market

Lest we forget, most energy (and money) is waster at home.

Why not point out the energy saving features of a house (or the possibility of turning a house into an Eco-friendly home?) Why not show potential Home Owners how much they could save by making changes here and there and how much money it could save them.

At the same time, Home Sellers can learn about how to make their houses even more profitable in a down market.

Instead of getting ready for an upcoming crisis, why not avert it altogether?

Education is the key.

Wind, water, trees, and sunlight are renewable sources that are not in any danger of running out for good

However, oil, natural gas and coal are non-renewable sources that will run out.

Which resources power your house

Why?

Could you change that

Do you know where to find out about how to do it?

Do you really believe it is not going to be cost-effective in the end tally?

At this point we have the grand luxury of this topic being a 'debate.

But not for long friends

Best of luck and go Green.

Douglas B. Garbe, Eco-realtor.

Tree Huggers and Granolas, they have money too (and lot's of it!)

Fri, 17 Aug 2007 17:14:48 -0500

It used to be that these people were treated like outsiders and non-consumers. No more. Now they are called Visionaries. And rightly so!

The housing slump non-withstanding, people who are selling Eco-friendly houses are seeing Green.

California, New Mexico, and Arkansas, among others, are states that now sell 'ecologically correct' homes at a faster rate than regular ones.

Environmentalist have asked builders and architects to construct Eco-friendly homes and apartments. Brad Pitt, for example, has been on the forefront of this cause for at least 3 years now.

With more than a 1,000,000 new homes built in the United States every year, the effect on natural ecosystems and wildlife is tremenduos.

But the issue is not about the houses being build. It's not even about their size and their cost.

Truly, Home Purchasers have become smarter to the ways of Environmentalism. The big picture includes Energy Efficiency, Carbon Footprints, Natural Allergies, Health Concerns, and Sustainability.

Which brings me to this: Just by making your house a little greener, you can increase its value and make it a more attractive prospect for today's savvy consumers.

As Realtors, let us study what our brothers and sisters are doing in the "Greener" states.

There is no reason why the Orange state can't go Green. Ha!

Best of luck and go Green.

Douglas B. Garbe, Eco-Realtor

The 3 Minute Green Shower

Fri, 17 Aug 2007 17:01:24 -0500

Your probably asking yourself...what are you talking about?

I base this on one simple fact: every 2 minutes in the shower equals about 15 gallons of water, which is about as much water as a person in Africa uses for everything in their life for a whole day. That includes bathing, cooking, drinking, cleaning.....everything.

The average American spends at least 8 minutes in the shower per session. If you take 2 showers a day, that would be 16 minutes.

And beyond that: The typical American household wastes about 8000 gallons a year just waiting for hot water to arrive at the tap.

Letting the tap flow while you brush your teeth wastes between 3 and 6 gallons per session. Brush your teeth 3 times like you should, and that number increases to a possible 18 gallons wasted.

Plug the drain in your tub before turning on the water and waiting for it to warm up. The average bathtub faucet flows between 4 and 6 gallons per minute.

During a regular summer, the average American lawn uses about 10,000 gallons of water.

Let's put this waste in financial terms: For every 2 minutes you are able to shave off here and there-- you'll save an average of $40 per year.

Maybe 3 minutes is still too long?

Just kidding.

Best of luck and go green

Douglas B. Garbe

Your green friendly eco-realtor

Green Home, Red Heart, Full Wallet

Fri, 17 Aug 2007 16:52:39 -0500

Elizabeth Rogers, in her work the Green Book, points out that about 80% of new homes built are not energy efficient, when they could be.

How could that be?

Also, not only are new homes not energy efficient; it is also that the homes are getting bigger. The average size of a new house in the United States has increased from 1500 sq ft in 1970 to about 2300 sq ft today.

Even more amazing is that the average American family has decreased from 3 people to little more than 2. The average American house is now twice the size of a typical home in Europe or Japan, and 26 times larger than the average living space in Africa.

That is shocking to me!

Energy inefficient bigger houses for smaller families, equals gigantic waste of energy and loss of money.

Well, if you've read this far, I have a present for you: I am going to show you how you can save at least $1200 right off the bat.

1. Buy Energy Star appliances and electronics. Households that use Energy Star products save up to $600 a year in energy costs.

2. Install low-flow plumbing (or put a large water displacing object, like a brick for example, in the water tank). This can reduce your water consumption by at least 45,000 gallons per year, and save you about $100.

3. Get ceiling fans and use them instead of running your air conditioning full-time. Do the math: It costs one penny an hour to run a ceiling fan, vs. 16 cents an hour for a room air conditioner, and 43 cents an hour for central air. Do it right, split it between fan and air conditioning and save at least $500 this summer.

And the best part: By saving money, you help the environment.

It couldn't get any sweeter.

Douglas B. Garbe

Best of luck and go green.

Your green friendly eco-realtor.

The GREEN secret

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 20:32:37 -0500

I won't make you wait until the end of this blog to tell you the secret.

So here it is: Making a difference makes more money for everyone involved.

Sweet and simple. The truth always is.

Best of luck and Go Green.

Douglas B. Garbe, your Eco Friendly Green Realtor

The Little Eco-Realtor that COULD!

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 20:26:33 -0500

Imagine not being uncomfortable -ever- about approaching a FSBO.

Imagine that FSBO calling you back just to chat about your visit and how much he enjoyed it.

Imagine, if you will, being asked to come back and talk a little more.

The above was my very first experience visiting a For Sale By Owner. All I did was to show him how much more he could sell his house for by going green. Believe you me, he was interested.

As a former teacher I know what that was all about: The Power of Education.

But it is not quite as easy as it sounds. BOTH adults and children hate to be taught, but both love to learn. At the same time, Consumers hate to be 'sold' but they love to buy.

When I approach people, my main mission is to make friends. A deal may make me money, a friendship brings a fortune.

I, in turn, bring people a wealth of information (about 6 pages worth, in a nice binder -presentation is everything). I give my materials freely and with gusto. I want people to know I am an expert in the field and that I know how to make "it" happen.

"It" being the wonderful combination of going green and making money.

And hey....wouldn't you know it. Money is green!

Best of Luck and Go Green!

Douglas B. Garbe, your Eco Friendly Green Realtor

The Power of Green

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 20:09:01 -0500

According to a recent Gallup Poll, Americans by a large majority not only support the environmental movement in general, but actually take action in support of their beliefs.

Examples are: 80% recycle

83% have made steps to reduce energy use

75% are trying to use less water

As Gallup describes it, "Thirty years after its founding, most Americans view the environmental movement positively."

That's the good news.

The not so good news is that Americans with just 4.5% of the world's population consume 30% of its materials.

In REALTOR terms, that would mean that the land needed to provide materials supporting the lifestyle of the average American is roughly thirty acres, while the average European can get by on less than 10 acres.

Try putting THAT on the market!

How do we bring about a quicker change? Well, Realtors will be on the forefront of this movement (whether we like it or not). So here is my solution:

* Let's take the difficulty and guesswork out of green living

* Let us adjust expectations and provide realistic goals

* Let us stress learning as both a motivator and enabler

* Let us become experts on what we sell to the public

Why not become experts indeed?

We have the game covered financially. We know how to help people buy or sell a house. We know which banks and lenders to send them to. We know about the prime rate and its ever changing consequences.

Why not be able to answer people's questions and concerns about the environment we are selling them?

And do you know who would benefit the most here?

The REALTORS! Talk about an image make-over at the right time.

The more I read and learn about the environment, the more I realize we are still in the opening act of this movement. We, as Realtors, can sell a better product. We can help home owners make that better product into an even more cost effective one.

We, as Realtors, can turn the tide.

Best of luck and Go Green.

Douglas B. Garbe, your Eco Friendly Green Realtor

All things being equal - People want to go Green!

Tue, 07 Aug 2007 21:28:50 -0500

Unfortunately, when it comes to most environmental issues, a large section of the population has associated it with the Triple D's: Dull, Dense, and Dry.

This Blog is derived from my desire to show that we can be environmentally friendly while remaining full-time consumers.

To me, being environmentally friendly is not about cutting things out, it is about creating something better. I foresee Realtors helping homeowners create Environmentally Friendly Homes and thus profiting on all fronts (financially and morally). That is the key issue in this debate. Are we as Realtors willing to learn new techniques, work a little harder, and understand that what we do (or don't do) affects our image, our relationship with the public at large, and Planet Earth?

"Environmentalism is not about being less bad, it's about being more good." - William McDonough

I am in awe of the power I have as a Realtor, both for the good and the bad. What an amazing profession I am in, that 'sells' land, water, and energy resources to the public.

Ultimately, it will be the Realty Profession that will be on the forefront of the Green Movement. How do we move into that?

To me, that's the creative part.

Thank you for all the kind, insightful remarks to my first blog.

Best of luck and Go Green!

Douglas B. Garbe, Your Eco-Realtor.

GREEN REALTORS! A shift in consumers' trust

Fri, 03 Aug 2007 10:44:30 -0500

Many of us agree with the main goals of the environmental movement. Why isn't this reflected in the approach of the Realty profession?

I was lucky enough to be involved in a career that mattered to children (I was teacher of Spanish, Sign Language and Environmental Studies for 12 years), and it was through the eyes of my students that I learned about my own inadequacies in the area of meaningful environmental stewardship. In plain English: I gave lip service about the environment, but in reality I lived a wasteful life.

By the third year of my teaching career, thanks to a wonderful set of coincidences and opportunities, my school - a private school in Central Florida, had the only interspecies communications exchange in the world between hearing children and Koko, the signing gorilla. I had the opportunity to meet with Koko on location, and Dr. Francine "Penny" Patterson, the dedicated scientist whose life mission is to save both gorillas and their natural environment.

Dr. Patterson , indeed , became my mentor and guide in this field. Our correspondence in the years between 1999 and 2002 opened my eyes and fueled my interest in going green. I learned that I could make a difference, even if only in my own household (but that is how revolutions start, right?)

"YOU MUST BE THE CHANGE YOU WISH TO SEE IN THE WORLD." - Mahatma Ghandi

So this all brings me to the following: What do we know about "Green Consumers" (Read: Home Buyers)? They are thoughtful, restrained, assiduous and overly suspicious of their movement being hijacked for a corporate profit. The law of green purchasing, in its most rigid form, can best be summed up as "Buy not, buy less, but if you must... BUY GREEN."

And that is the key: People need a place to live and every house is potential environmental safe haven for a green, environmental conscious family. Why not honor this amazing simple fact? By accepting that the environmental "issue" is part of the critical purchasing decision we will have made the first step in the right direction. Environmentally conscious people have housing needs too. They have been waiting for an honest approach from the Realty profession.

Indeed, the purchasing power of eco-friendly people is far greater than anticipated. Let us meet this fresh "green" slice of the market headfirst by acknowledging that they want to buy a product that benefits the environmental as well as satisfying their needs.

I would like to believe that "This is what I can do right now with the information I have".

Stay tuned for more...!

Best of luck!

Douglas B. Garbe, Your ECO-REALTOR