our clients want to hear more about green real estate and why it matters, surveys show.
Whether they’re first-time buyers or existing homeowners, consumers are showing more desire to learn more about environmental matters in housing.
Read more: Clients Want You to Talk Sustainability to Them
Indeed, 61 percent of homeowners have researched energy-efficient improvements, according to the Bank of America Homebuyer Insights Report. Eighty-six percent of homeowners say they have some type of energy-efficient product in their home.
And it’s not just a young generational thing. That same study shows that 93 percent of seniors say they have energy-efficient products in their home compared to 78 percent of millennials.
Indeed, more than half of REALTORS® say that their consumers are showing a greater interest in real estate sustainability issues and practices, according to NAR’s REALTORS® and Sustainability report, which stems from NAR’s new sustainability program. More multiple listing services are adding data fields to spotlight a property’s green features as well.
The green home features REALTORS® say their clients are showing the most interest in involve a home’s efficient use of lighting; a smart or connected home; green community features, such as bike lanes and green spaces; landscaping for water conservation; and renewable energy systems, such as solar and geothermal.
Housing experts offer up several ways homeowners can be more green with their homes and save money to boot, including:
—Melissa Dittmann Tracey, REALTOR® Magazine