Julie Ambachtsheer is a Toronto-based real estate agent with a background in sustainable investment management. In this Q&A she talks about the benefits of buying a green home as well as offering advice to both buyers and sellers of green homes.
What inspired you to become a green real estate advisor?
As a real estate agent with a background in sustainable finance, I find it incredibly rewarding to work with clients who are passionate about sustainability. My previous sustainable investment experience helps me guide clients toward energy-efficient properties and inform them about financial incentives like the Canada Greener Homes Loan and Toronto’s Home Energy Loan Program.
Helping clients retrofit their homes with sustainable technologies like heat pumps and solar panels not only enhances their home’s value and comfort but also supports environmental responsibility. It’s fulfilling to assist clients in finding homes that reflect their commitment to sustainability and contribute to a greener future.
What kind of services do you provide?
As a real estate agent with a background in sustainable finance, I offer a range of services designed to help clients find and enhance energy-efficient, environmentally-friendly homes. My services include:
Property search and evaluation – Assisting clients in finding homes that align with their sustainability goals, focusing on properties with existing green features or potential for sustainable upgrades.
Guidance on financial incentives – Informing clients about various grants, loans, and rebates available for energy-efficient home improvements, such as the Canada Greener Homes Loan and Toronto’s Home Energy Loan Program.
Energy audit coordination – Leveraging my network of energy audit professionals to provide thorough assessments of properties. These audits identify opportunities for improving energy efficiency, ensuring clients can make informed decisions about potential upgrades.
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Market analysis – Offering insights into the market value of energy-efficient homes and trends in sustainable real estate, helping clients understand the long-term benefits of investing in green properties.
Personalized service – Providing a tailored approach to meet each client’s unique needs and sustainability goals, ensuring a seamless and rewarding home-buying experience.
By combining my expertise in real estate and sustainable finance, I help clients navigate the complexities of sustainable living and make the most of available opportunities to create environmentally-friendly homes.
Can you tell me about your credentials for this type of work?
Certainly! Here’s an overview of my credentials:
NAR GREEN designation: This designation from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) signifies my expertise in green real estate practices. It ensures that I am well-versed in energy efficiency, sustainability, and the benefits of green homes, which helps me provide informed guidance to clients.
Chartered financial analyst (CFA): As a CFA, I have a deep understanding of financial analysis and investment strategies. This knowledge allows me to effectively advise clients on the financial aspects of sustainable home improvements and navigate the various incentives and programs available.
10 years of green technology investing experience: With a decade of experience in green technology investing, I understand the technologies being used to reduce energy usage in buildings.
These credentials, combined with my network of energy audit professionals and my commitment to sustainability, enable me to provide comprehensive and specialized services to clients looking to embrace environmentally-friendly living.
What do you feel are the greatest benefits to buying a green home in your market?
Buying a green home in today’s market offers numerous benefits, both immediate and long-term. Here are some of the greatest advantages:
Energy savings – Green homes are designed to be energy-efficient, which can significantly reduce utility bills. Features like improved insulation, energy-efficient windows, and advanced heating and cooling systems help homeowners save money over time.
Environmental impact – Green homes use sustainable materials and technologies that reduce their carbon footprint. This means less impact on the environment, which is a critical factor for many eco-conscious buyers.
Healthier living environment – Green homes often incorporate better air quality systems and non-toxic building materials, leading to a healthier indoor environment. This can reduce health issues related to poor air quality, such as allergies and respiratory problems.
Higher resale value – As demand for sustainable living increases, green homes tend to have a higher resale value. Buyers are willing to pay a premium for energy efficiency and sustainable features, making green homes a smart long-term investment.
Access to incentives – There are various federal, provincial, and municipal incentives available for green homes. Programs like the Canada Greener Homes Loan and Toronto’s Home Energy Loan Program can provide financial support for energy-efficient upgrades.
Enhanced comfort – Energy-efficient homes provide better temperature regulation and insulation, resulting in a more comfortable living environment year-round.
Overall, buying a green home is not only a smart financial decision but also a meaningful way to contribute to a more sustainable future.
What is the best advice you could offer prospective green home buyers?
My best advice for prospective green home buyers is:
Conduct thorough research – Understand the various green certifications and standards, such as LEED or ENERGY STAR, to ensure the home meets high sustainability criteria.
Take advantage of incentives – Explore available financial incentives, grants, and loans for energy-efficient upgrades. Programs like the Canada Greener Homes Loan and Toronto’s Home Energy Loan Program can provide significant financial support.
Get an energy audit – Before purchasing, have an energy audit conducted by a professional. This will identify the home’s current efficiency levels and highlight areas for improvement.
Prioritize key features – Look for homes with critical green features such as high-efficiency HVAC systems, proper insulation, energy-efficient windows, and renewable energy sources like solar panels or heat pumps.
Consider long-term savings – While green homes may have higher upfront costs, they offer long-term savings through reduced utility bills and lower maintenance expenses. Factor these savings into your overall budget.
Work with knowledgeable professionals – Partner with real estate agents, inspectors and contractors who have experience with green homes. Their expertise will help you make informed decisions and ensure the home meets your sustainability goals.
Evaluate resale value – Consider the future resale value of the home. Green homes are increasingly in demand, and their value is likely to appreciate as more buyers seek sustainable living options.
Focus on location – Choose a home in a community that supports sustainable living, with access to public transportation, green spaces, and local amenities that reduce your environmental footprint.
By following these tips, you can make a well-informed decision that aligns with your sustainability goals and benefits you financially and environmentally in the long run.
And for sellers, what advice would you offer to help them sell their green home?
For sellers looking to market their green home, here’s some advice to help you attract the right buyers and maximize your sale:
Highlight green features – Clearly showcase the energy-efficient and sustainable features of your home, such as solar panels, energy-efficient windows, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and insulation. Use labels like LEED or ENERGY STAR if applicable.
Provide energy bills – Share past utility bills to demonstrate the cost savings associated with your green home. This can be a strong selling point for buyers concerned about long-term energy costs.
Get an energy audit – Have a recent energy audit report available to show prospective buyers. This validates the energy efficiency of your home and highlights any additional improvements that can be made.
Emphasize health benefits – Highlight any features that contribute to a healthier living environment, such as non-toxic building materials, improved air quality systems and water filtration systems.
Leverage incentives – Inform potential buyers about existing incentives and rebates they may qualify for if they purchase your home. This can make the financial aspect of buying a green home more attractive.
Use professional marketing – Work with a real estate agent who specializes in green homes. They can create targeted marketing materials that emphasize the sustainable aspects of your home and reach eco-conscious buyers.
Stage for sustainability – Stage your home to reflect an eco-friendly lifestyle. Use sustainable and recycled materials for staging, and showcase any green living spaces, such as vegetable gardens or composting systems.
Educate your agent – Ensure your real estate agent is well-versed in the green features of your home and can effectively communicate their benefits to potential buyers.
Highlight long-term savings – Make sure potential buyers understand the long-term savings on utility bills and maintenance costs that come with a green home. This can be a significant motivator for buyers who are weighing upfront costs against future savings.
Create a green home information packet – Provide a packet that includes details about all the green features, certifications, energy savings, and any relevant documentation such as warranties for energy-efficient appliances.
By focusing on these strategies, you can effectively market your green home and attract buyers who appreciate the benefits of sustainable living.
What is your business’ approach to sustainability?
Sustainability is at the core of my business practices, reflecting my commitment to a greener future both professionally and personally. I have owned a hybrid car for 5 years now to reduce carbon emissions and promote cleaner transportation options. To minimize waste, I limit the use of paper by utilizing digital documents and electronic signatures whenever possible. I use digital marketing strategies to reduce the environmental impact of traditional print advertising, including social media and online listings.
I educate my clients about the benefits of sustainable living and green home features, informing them about available financial incentives and long-term savings. Additionally, I collaborate with a network of energy audit professionals and green contractors to provide comprehensive services, ensuring clients receive expert advice and high-quality sustainable solutions. Staying informed about the latest developments in green technology allows me to continuously improve my services and offer the most up-to-date advice. Through these practices, I aim to reduce my environmental impact and promote a greener, more sustainable future in the real estate industry.
Check out Julie Ambachtsheer’s listing for a quick description of her services or visit her website.
