Although more than half of Chicago Agent readers believe the green movement is still relevant in this economy (57 percent), only 15 percent of agents have had buyers request green features or green properties. In addition, it appears the number of agents getting their green designation has decreased from last year – 17 percent of agents surveyed last year had a green designation; this year, only 4 percent of agents surveyed have a green designation.

“I believe that buyers appreciate ‘green’ features, but they are not yet ready to pay extra for them.” BOB PARRIS, BROKER/OWNER, MANCHESTER REALTY.

“While there might be an allure to someone buying into a new development, the price to purchase ‘green’ will probably not be actualized on the selling end. Whether the building is green or not is not a question buyers in this economy are asking. They are looking to purchase at the most competitive price and don’t seem to want to pay a premium for the green designation.”
DONNA MANELLA, BROKER ASSOCIATE, CENTURY 21 AMBASSADOR

“Everyone has a stake in this planet called Earth. I want to make sure that future generations can live on this earth with food, water and clear air – that’s why the green movement is still relevant.”
CLAIRE SCHILTZ, BROKER ASSOCIATE, RE/MAX TOWN & COUNTRY

“It’s a sham. If somebody wants to ‘go green,’ stop using air conditioning, dishwashers and dryers, and turn off the lights when exiting a room. There’s your ‘green.’”
MARK FONTER, AGENT, CONLON: A REAL ESTATE COMPANY