No one who considers the future of our planet can afford to ignore the environmental issues that we face. Our beaches are filling up with trash and microplastics are impacting the ocean and the wildlife it contains. Global concerns are daily being raised about such things as air quality and the overuse of non-renewable resources.
People with an environmental conscience are appearing in every walk of life, and that includes the world of real estate. Perhaps you are a green realtor who wants to make a positive impact on the planet. This article will look at four key areas that may be of interest to you.
1. Niche Marketing
Businesses sometimes make more money by focusing on narrower target audiences. Their advertising is tailored to attract certain types of people, and over time this net may be widened. There is a growing number of people who are concerned about environmental issues, and this can impact their lifestyle choices—including their choice of home.
It’s possible for a green realtor to promote themselves as specialists with a social conscience. By using an internet data exchange they can become trusted sources for online listings in their local area. They can gain an edge on giant corporations and connect their IDX to their marketing tools. This can help them use and promote their area of authority and also improve their Google ranking.
Realtors can use the environmental benefits of a home as a selling point. One example would be solar panels, which are kind to the environment and also save people money. More and more eco-friendly homes are being built, and each special feature can help encourage clients to buy. Other things to consider are properties with green leases or green facilities management.
2. Working Greener
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Use this handy checklist on your next project to keep track of all the ways you can make your home more energy-efficient and sustainable.
Going Paperless
The internet provides more than a new set of tools for business promotion and growth. It also supplies the opportunity for companies to become greener. When data is stored online using cloud computing, there is less physical information retained in workplaces. This means premises can be reduced in size, and money can be saved on filing cabinets, storage boxes and more.
Going paperless can also help companies become more organized. There’s no more rifling through paper files and looking for missing documents. Customer security is protected when online data transmission is encrypted.
The average Canadian uses 308 kg of paper every year, and much of it goes to waste. When businesses direct their activities online, they often reduce their printing costs. In turn, this helps reduce their carbon footprint. Landfill sites take less of a hit and energy is conserved; trees are saved and air quality is protected.
Greener Transport
Realtors are frequently on the road, visiting properties and clients. It’s important that their mode of transport adequately represents their company. While a realtor may not wish to arrive by bicycle, they don’t need to use an RV!
If a realtor is promoting themselves as having a social conscience, this should be reflected in some way. Perhaps gas-guzzling company cars should be replaced with electric versions. Realtors could also consider collecting their clients for property viewings when it’s safe to do so, rather than everyone driving separate vehicles.
In some cases, transport can be dispensed with by using video conferencing tools such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams. Realtors can maintain face-to-face contact with their clients when this is required, but virtually rather than physically. While it may seem less personal, it does also have its advantages: traveling times can be dispensed with and communication achieved more quickly and easily.
3. Environmentally Friendly Homes and Workplaces
If a green realtor is to make a difference in their line of work, it’s essential that they gain knowledge in green building and keep up to date on latest developments in green building materials and sustainable technologies.
They should also be familiar with green certifications and policies. As they expand their knowledge they can be seen as advisers and specialists. When government initiatives exist, realtors need to fully understand the implications and financial incentives.
Energy Efficiency
This can affect every step of the process from planning and construction to daily home usage and renovation. Realtors can learn about HVAC and air conditioning maintenance. They can read up on Energy Star ratings and the provision of solar panels. Other relevant subjects are windows and lights, air leaks and building materials. Modern white goods are more energy-efficient than their older counterparts. Whilst the previous models may still be doing their job, there will be an adverse effect upon peoples’ energy bills and the environment.
The Indoor Environment
This is also something worthy of research. Air quality is often many times worse indoors than outdoors. Air quality can be negatively impacted through the use of gas cookers, general cooking and the use of commercial cleaning materials. It’s worth taking time to learn about air purifiers and the benefits of having house plants.
4. The Power Of Influence
Green realtors can use this newfound knowledge to educate their clients. One way is to provide a complimentary energy assessment. They can suggest a homeowner replaces incandescent light bulbs with LED versions. If a house buyer wants to install new flooring, the realtor can promote the use of reclaimed wood.
They can also point out areas of the home where window or door seals are worn out or broken. In the long term, much of this advice will reduce the person’s fuel bills and reduce their environmental impact.
Should a client be wishing to renovate their new home, their realtor can explain the value of using glazed windows and “cool” roofing materials.
Green realtors can lead by example in the way they run their businesses, especially regarding their transport and premises. They can target potential customers who are concerned about the environment and educate their clients from this angle.
When a green realtor is seen as socially caring and knowledgeable, they can increase client trust and promote sales. In turn, the environment will benefit through raised awareness of the issues and solutions available. In order for global change to be achieved, everyone needs to be involved, and green realtors have a valuable part to play in this.
Feature image: Pavil Danilyuk; Image 1: Pixabay
