Many consumers are not only hoping for but also demanding sustainability play a role in their lives, and sustainability in homeownership is one of the ways individuals and families can reduce their environmental footprint.

In fact, according to a 2019 report from the National Association of Realtors on the topic of sustainability, 69 percent of real estate professionals said that energy-efficiency promotions are very or somewhat valuable in listings and 59 percent found that clients were at least somewhat interested in sustainability. Furthermore, the study found that environmentally friendly buildings are becoming part of real estate professionals’ day-to-day work: 34 percent said that they had been involved with buying or selling a property with green features.

It’s clear that sustainability is an important aspect of the homebuying process, and something brokers need to be knowledgeable about. That’s why the Chicago Association of Realtors recently launched its new sustainability initiative and work group. The hope is that this new program will help members create value for themselves, their brokerages and their clients by providing resources to create sustainable buildings and lifestyles, with the ultimate goal of positively impacting property values and the environment.

Aside from sharing knowledge and best practices, this is also about bolstering the value proposition of Realtors. Taking steps to protect the environment is important, but more than that, this initiative is a step to help members meet their clients’ needs and become a leading industry voice on this issue. Through a mix of blogs, customizable marketing materials, classes and events focused around sustainability topics like solar incentives and green lifestyles, this initiative will help Realtors will become better informed on this important topic. After all, Realtors are counted on to be an asset to clients in their process of buying a home, and being a resource on the topic of sustainability will help them to best assist clients and direct them to available resources.

Broker or client, it’s everyone’s social responsibility to take care of the environment; that’s why embracing this initiative will ensure a better community for all. Through CAR’s efforts, members will have expanded market opportunities, and large and small businesses will thrive and be committed to the revitalization of Chicagoland communities as healthy, vibrant and diverse places to live, work and play.
Check out CAR’s sustainability initiatives and resources, and meet the workgroup at ChicagoRealtor.com/sustainability.