There are various green certifications that can be done on a new home, they include using the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Rating System, through the US Green Building Council. This is great for new construction, but what about homes that already exist? How do Homeowners with existing homes know if their home meets high levels of Energy-Efficiency and when they are ready to sell, how are all of those updates considered in the value of the house?
For the longest time, we have not had such a system. Now we Realtors can utilize a program known as Pearl Certification. As a part of my services, I cover the Pearl Certification fees for my Listings that qualify. I am able to partner with an energy-efficient expert who can perform blower-door tests and assess ventilation, insulation, and other features. This allows me to quantify the energy-savings and convert that to value within a house.
There is a specific pathway to follow when selling a green home, and a Green Designated Realtor will ensure that that a Green-Trained Appraiser handles this. Just as one wouldn't want a foot doctor to do heart surgery, I know that it is important that an Appraiser that lacks this training should not be doing the Appraisal. Competence on the Appraiser's behalf is vital and will ensure that the home reaches its maximum potential.
Unlike real estate agents who think an investment in green features is difficult to recoup in a listing price, NAR GREEN Designees ensure each of these features is part of the value assessment and properly marketed in the sales process.
Depending on the level of certification, a virtual consult can occur or an on-site visit from a Contractor. If the home doesn't quite meet certain levels, there's resources to help achieve energy-efficiency. An energy-audit (conducted by an Energy Auditor) can locate where energy is being lost. Common areas include crawlspaces, windows, attics, gaps in ductwork, door seals, etc. Tax credits through the Inflation Reduction Act can help off-set the costs of improving your home's efficiency.
There is a market of Buyers who are concerned with climate change and its effects on their quality of life. People or children who suffer allergies, may consider a home that has better indoor air quality. This can range from low- volatile organic compounds found in paint, flooring, gas stoves, and HVAC ventilation. A market of Buyers that want to reduce their utility expenses as they age in their home.
When a Homeowner has taken the time to invest in energy-efficiency, it's important to choose a REALTOR who is a National Association of Realtors Green Designee.
Your Green Designee, Jessica Thompson
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