Eco Buying – How Green is My Wallet?
We are getting hit with lots of information on the Environment and Shopping Green. This includes Buying Green Homes.
The California Association of Realtor's (CAR) put out this infographic showing how different Green Features for the Home impact sales. Take a look:
The primary observation made by the CAR on this graphic is that people will only go green when it actually saves them money. Although I agree with them that people will tend to shop and buy only when it makes economic sense for them I have some other takes on this.
Not everything that is presented as “Green” is really Green for the Environment. Some of it is really more about the greening of wallets. Some things presented as “Green” are actually not “Green” for the environment.
Two classes of items seem to be attractive to home owners and buyers.
One of those classes is things that are long established and aesthetically pleasing. (Windows and Ceiling Fans.)
The other thing that people seem to be really interested in is water savings. Water saving devices are economical and I think in general water shortage issues are more realistic and believable to people than other issues.
People will not buy Green items if they do not believe they will work right or as effective as traditional items.
These are fairly subjective thoughts and hunches based on my own feelings and talking to other people.
What do you think?
Gene Riemenschneider is the Broker and Owner of Home Point Real Estate in Brentwood CA. Serving the East Contra Costa County Communities of Brentwood, Antioch, Oakley, Discovery Bay, Pittsburg, and beyond. For Buying, Selling or Investing call 925-260-4321.
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