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:

  1. 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.
  2. SITE ORIENTATION:  Allow for abundant natural daylight into the interior to reduce lighting requirements and to take advantage of any prevailing breezes
  3. BUILDING MATERIALS: Low- and zero-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints and sealants make for better indoor air quality.  Reflective roof tops reduce heat absorption.
  4. 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*.  
  5. 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