GOING GREEN - 5

GOING GREEN
What are REALTORS Doing about Sustainability?

By Steve Wright

Realtor Michael Kiefer -- founder and principal of Green DC Realty, an affiliate of Keller Williams Realty Capital Properties in the Washington D.C.-Maryland area -- said sustainability requires buyers to look at a bigger picture.

“I believe we are in an era when we will see oil rise to $200 a barrel in the near future,” he observed. “I think part of the problem I am seeing is that the consumer is not entirely sure where to start. Purchasing a home for many is a challenging matter filled with lots of anxiety and since for many it is their first home, they have not been trained to think about what I refer to the external costs of owning a home.”

Kiefer said the shrinking energy supply and rising cost doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom – it can be an opportunity for Realtors to sharpen their focus and add to the crucial information they supply to their clients.

“Most consumers are qualified based upon credit and are given a picture of PITI as part of owning. But from my experience, I know of very few Realtors that ever mention the costs of utilities or home maintenance,” he said.

TOMORROW: Car Sharing

Wright frequently writes about smart growth and sustainable communities. He and his wife live in a restored historic home in the heart of Miami’s Little Havana. Contact him at: stevewright64@yahoo.com