According to the National Association of REALTORS®, a growing number of homebuyers consider environmental impact when house shopping, and for good reason. By consuming less energy, eco-friendly homes can help reduce pollution, preserve natural resources, cut costs, and enhance homeowners’ overall quality of life with cleaner air and water and increased comfort.
So, how do great agents develop a targeted marketing strategy for an eco-friendly home? Here are three tips to help you get started.
How to Sell a Sustainable Home
Highlight Financial Benefits
Money talks, even to the most eco-conscious buyer. To set an eco-friendly listing apart from the competition, highlight these potential financial benefits.
Annual Savings—Features like double-pane windows, solar panels, smart thermostats, and energy-efficient lighting can save thousands of dollars in energy costs and maintenance each year.
Tax Advantages—Even Uncle Sam is ready to reduce his carbon footprint! Green upgrades made to a home after January 2023 may qualify for a tax credit of up to $3,200.
Resale Value—Energy-efficient dwellings are in high demand, and green homes may sell for a higher premium than others.
Advertise Health Savings
Climate change is a valid concern that hovers in the back of many buyers’ minds when they’re looking for a safe, comfortable place to call home. Energy-efficient upgrades can promote overall wellness by increasing ventilation, reducing the risk of mold, and minimizing indoor pollutants that may emit radon.
U.S. residential properties alone contribute to around 20% of greenhouse gas emissions. By living in a home with eco-friendly construction or additional upgrades, a household can help reduce its carbon footprint by over 60%. Make sure qualified buyers understand how their home purchase can contribute to the greater good.
Be the Expert
While two in three agents have already helped clients with their energy-efficient home purchase, that market will only become more competitive in the future. Position yourself as the environmentally friendly housing expert in your community so that, as demand increases, you can leverage your experience to your advantage.
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