Growing Number of Consumers Seeking Homes with “Green” Features

Thirty-two percent of Realtors said they had been directly involved with buying or selling a property that had green or eco-friendly features in the past 12 months, according to a new report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

NAR’s 2021 Realtors and Sustainability Report surveyed Realtors about sustainability issues facing the real estate industry. The association released the report in recognition of this year’s upcoming Earth Day celebration.

Sixty-five percent of respondents said promoting energy efficiency in listings was valuable, with 36 percent reporting that their multiple listing service had green data fields. Among Realtors who did have MLS green data fields, 36 percent used them to promote green features, 25 percent highlighted energy information and 13 percent listed green certifications. More than half of those surveyed – 55 percent – said their clients were interested in sustainability.

“A growing number of consumers are seeking homes with features that are good for the environment and, by extension, good for their wallets by reducing utility expenses in the long run,” said Jessica Lautz, NAR vice president of demographics and behavioral insights. “The pandemic has led to an increased focus on wellness and sustainability is an important variable in that overall equation for some people.”

Twenty-two percent of respondents said that a high-performance home – defined as a systematic building science approach to home improvements that enhance indoor comfort, health, operational efficiency and durability – increased the dollar value offered compared to other similar homes.

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