I am so pleased to let you know that I have recently earned the GREEN designation from the National Association of Realtors. I’ve always loved the work I do, but now it feels even better to be named a GREEN designee. I am one of just seven Realtors in all of San Francisco to be granted this prestigious designation. With my new certification I can help you:
- Evaluate the cost/benefits of green building features and practices
- Distinguish between industry rating and classification systems
- List and market green homes and buildings
- Identify a property’s green potential
Being green means thinking differently about how we consume and dispose of our resources. Here are just a few things to consider if buying, building or renovating a home.
Five Things To Look For In A Green Home:
- LOCATION: Close proximity to parks, schools, stores and public transportation minimizes time spent driving your car. See how many errands you can carry out without using a car. That’s healthier for you, your wallet, and the environment.
- SITE ORIENTATION: Allow for abundant natural daylight into the interior to reduce lighting requirements and to take advantage of any prevailing breezes
- BUILDING MATERIALS: Low- and zero-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints and sealants make for better indoor air quality. Reflective roof tops reduce heat absorption.
- ENERGY EFFICIENCY: A green home has energy-efficient lighting, heating, cooling and water-heating systems. Lighting accounts for close to 20 percent of the average home’s electric bill*. Compact Fluorescent Light bulbs (CFLs) use up to 75% less energy than incandescent light bulbs and last up to 10 times longer*.
- WATER EFFICIENCY: A green home has water-efficient kitchen and bathroom fixtures like low-flow toilets and ENERGY STAR rated dishwashers and washing machines. A family of four can save 14,000 to 25,000 gallons of water per year by switching to high efficiency toilets that use 1.6 gallons or less per flush*.
*SOURCE: EnergyStar.gov