Did you know that the Austin City Council is considering an ordinance that would require you to install energy efficient upgrades to your home before you can sell your property? This mandate would require homeowners to obtain a “Certificate of Compliance” from the City of Austin before homeowners can sell their homes.
The City’s proposal includes a “point of sale” requirement that could potentially cost homeowners thousands of dollars. REALTORS ® support energy efficiency, but we oppose this ordinance because it limits homeownership opportunities for Austin’s citizens. Instead, we encourage responsible environmental protection through educational programs and incentives, such as rebates, that assist and encourage voluntary conservation in our great city.
The city’s Energy Efficiency Retrofit Task Force is currently determining specific guidelines for the proposed ordinance through Resolution No. 20071213-064. The resolution clearly states that mandates will be enacted at the property “point of sale,” meaning upgrades would be required before homes can be sold. The Austin City Council will vote on whether or not to enact the task force recommendations this summer.
Here’s what you can do. Spread this message to others. Visit Keep Austin Affordable and share this information with neighbors, friends, family, and anyone else who will listen!
UPDATE: There is now an ordinance in Austin. If you live in the City of Austin and are serviced by Austin Energy you must either have an energy audit before you sell your home to provide to the buyer or qualify exempt because of recent energy upgrades. To find out more visit Austin Energy.
I want to be your REALTOR. If you are interested in buying or selling a house in the greater Austin area, contact me about how I can help you.
Austin, Texas. Robin Scott, Broker. Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer's Representative, Seller's Representative Specialist. 512.589.7988.
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