Buyers looking for greened-up homes are finding it as easy as playing Monopoly, thanks to a growing number of eco-savvy real estate agents and brokers.
In a slow, saturated market, agents are looking for tools to stand out. Promoting themselves as environmental experts about energy and heating issues seems to give many a leg up – but how much do they really know?
An article in the Wall Street Journal is worth a read:
"I start out by asking clients if they are looking for homes that are built with solar power and energy efficient appliances," says Inge Hutzel, a broker in Sonoma, Calif. "Lots of new homes are designed to conserve energy, but old ones can be retro-fitted to lower heat bills and remodeling can make kitchens and baths more eco-friendly and functional."
EcoBroker International, in Evergreen, Colo. (where else?) offers courses that educate agents about air quality improvements, cost-effective retro-fitting, and the best way to walk buyers through applications for grants and tax credits for energy-saving upgrades. The program has certified more than 2,600 agents this year, twice the number as last year, evidence that greening our indoor environments is a growing priority.
As an added incentive, mortgage lenders like Bank of America are offering bigger loans or discounts to buyers who make energy-efficient improvements or if their new home meets certain standards. Check with your lender before buying to see if you qualify for such a loan.
Image: Steve Rhodes