Energy Efficiency for REALTORS® and Homebuyers

Energy efficiency and “green” have become part of the American lexicon and part of the thought process for many U.S. homebuyers and sellers. Consider this:

• The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) 2007 NAR Profile of Buyers’ Home Features Preferences reported that 46 percent of all buyers consider that energy efficiency is very important, and another 46 percent consider it at least somewhat important.
• A survey conducted by NAR in March of 2008 indicated that 87 percent of Realtors® think energy efficiency is the most important aspect of a “green” home to their clients.
• National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) research released in early 2008 indicates that clients are willing to pay for efficiency. Over half of those surveyed said they were willing to pay between $5,000 and $11,000 more for a home with lower utility bills.

Whether buying or selling, it’s good business for Realtors® to highlight the energy-efficient features of a home. As an informed Realtor®, you can guide clients through marketing or buying an energy-efficient home; one that will ultimately provide better customer satisfaction; reduce monthly utility bills for the homeowner; and, if you know how to market it, command a higher asking price at resale.

Furthermore, one of the best places to start going green is in your own office. There are plenty of resources available to help you make your office and your business more energy efficient.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) provides a digest of resources for Realtors® to learn more about energy-efficiency and how to incorporate it into their businesses.