The Greening of Connecticut Real Estate

by Jennifer Gonzalez

Until recently, it has been difficult for to locate green homes for sale. For years, there have been buyers’ agents, sellers’ agents and commercial and rental real estate specialists, but none with specific expertise in locating, comparing and purchasing "green" properties. But that has changed. Certified EcoBroker® and the National Association of Realtors® Green designee are realtors who are certified through specialized training in green building practices and green property features. They also follow trends in green and maintain their designation via annual continuing education programs.

Knowledgeable about installing, purchasing and financing a wide range of “Eco-Friendly” technologies for new and existing properties, they assist buyers in finding a “green” home. Green homes produce less of a carbon foot print, save natural resources, have lower utility bills, and are healthier for owners and the community.   Examples of Eco-Friendly technologies are:  energy efficient appliances, tight insulation, low-E windows, low flow faucets/toilets, solar energy and geothermal heating and cooling. This new breed of realtor knows what to look for in a property and assists demanding buyers in finding what best suits their green needs and budget. 

They also consult eco-conscious consumers existing properties “greener,” using green financing, if required. For sellers of green properties, these specialized realtors offer green marketing best practices that produce significant results in a challenging market.

What is a green property? Very simply, a green property conserves natural resources and creates less waste. These types of structures are also healthier for people living and working inside because they include low or no toxic paints, stains, finishes, cabinets, flooring, etc.

Buying a property to be retrofitted is an option to consider. Foreclosures and short sales make ideal green projects. Consider a 203k or Energy Improvement Mortgage (EIM) to finance your green retrofit.  Greening properties can make a lasting impact on the environment and bring positive change to our communities.

According to LEED, 25% of new home construction is Green. In Connecticut today, there are over 100 green single family properties available and the number is growing.

Green real estate provides a higher standard of living that is affordable and can even save money in the long run.  
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Jennifer Gonzales works extensively with buyers and sellers to build healthier and more sustainable communities, one property at a time.  From strategic property marketing to green financing with EEMs and EIMs to closing on a home with life-long energy savings built-in and more. For more information please visit www.greenctrealestate.com.

Comments

[Roof Cleaning]

No doubt you have mentioned the current requirement of thinking about green houses. But don't you also find it is not such an easy work to find a green house like a normal home. Because as you already said there are certified sellers who will help us, so it means they are limited. And I also think how can we go for green house if we are living in a huge crowded place. These are the some reason why people give up thinking about green homes.

[Kent Builders]

The idea of promoting green homes and buildings is nice since we get to help the environment from total destruction. People should learn to value the environment, and green homes is a good start.

[Cherry Picker Hire]

Green building and architecture isn't that difficult, it can even save you a lot of money aside from the fact that you also help save the environment.

[Spencer Hale]

I learned a lot about eco homes from this post and I think that they are a great movement and hopefully will become the new standard. It seems like the natural evolution of the housing market.

[Master Resale Rights]

The time for the absolute necessity of more green energy and green technology has come. With the costs of living skyrocketing and the cost of fuel rising as well, alternatives to heat and cooling costs are available, though I don't think people really consider utilizing them to save money.

[LED Mini Lights]

I agree with you Tom.

[David Frost]

In terms of price, are green homes necessarily more expensive? That's considering all the technology that comes with it. Anyway, in buying any property it is important to measure the area as well. That way, you may resolve any future conflicts with boundaries.

[Poplar Bluff Real Estate]

How should I start off my path to real estate.

[Whittier Denver Homes Guy]

Great post! I have noticed a growing demand for green homes, lets hope that the demand keeps going up so that we can reduce our carbon foot print.

[AC installation largo]

I think it's hard to find a green home nowadays. Maybe Tom is right just think of buying a home should invest in an inspector with a thermal imager.