Colorado Green Real Estate

Colorado EcoBroker Certified Training: Green Market Advantage: Day 3, Part 2/2

The EcoBroker Certified training program is designed to give real estate agents the tools and information for promoting healthier, cost effective and environmentally responsible practices in real estate. The training is provided by EcoBroker International. The instructor is John Stovall. The class was held at Douglas-Elbert Realtor Association in Colorado Springs.

This post outlines the learning objectives for the material covered in the second half of the third day of the three day course. I am taking the course again to become an instructor for the EcoBroker Designation. The training is divided into three days with each day covering a specific module. Today’s session is titled EcoBroker Green Market Advantage.  

This is the final part of the training. There were a total of 13 agents in the class not including me that received their EcoBroker Certified Designation.  Visit the EcoBroker International website for more information on EcoBroker Designation.

Green Market Data And Examples & Identifying Green Properties

• Identify the characteristics of markets likely to be sensitive to the “green” message.
• List neighborhoods or subdivisions with existing green products and services.
• Convert green market ideas and characteristics into a personal marketing plan.
• Identify likely green market segments with activities and demographics.
• Develop a plan to identify target individuals and organizations for specific marketing campaigns.
• Adapt marketing techniques to market effectively to the specific market segment.

Networking for Success

• Recognize the importance of green market affiliates as both resources for customer needs and centers of influence for referral business.
• Learn techniques of cross-marketing with green market affiliates to provide superior service to buyers and sellers.
• Build a plan into your business model for recruiting green industry affiliates as partners.

Green Market Strategies

• Use green market educational and promotional materials to highlight energy and environmental training and demonstrate its advantages to the public.
• Segregate marketing leads to isolate the “greener” prospects and provide the opportunity for target marketing.
• Use EcoBroker educational and marketing materials and support properly to build awareness and market share.
• Use activities and materials to increase and maintain customer awareness of green benefits and build a long-term service relationship.

Measuring Success

• Monitor progress and success in the green market.
• Recognize alternative measures of success, including financial production, personal satisfaction, and community contribution.
• Set specific measurable goals to be accomplished over a selected period of time.

Click Here to View Denver Energy Star Certified Homes For Sale

Contact Me Today For More Information

Or Call Me At 720-771-5594

Click Here to Search More Denver and Boulder County Homes For Sale

If you or someone you know is interested in buying or selling a home in Boulder or anywhere in Denver Metro please call me. I can help you learn more about the area, and I can assist with all types of real estate transactions. I am also a Certified EcoBroker specializing in energy-efficient homes and environmental practices in real estate across the Front Range.

Please feel free to call me at 720-771-5594 or visit my website at E3GreenHOMES.com

Previous Post: Colorado EcoBroker Certified Training Green Market Advantage Part 1/2

Colorado EcoBroker Certified Training: Green Market Advantage: Day 3, Part 1/2

The EcoBroker Certified training program is designed to give real estate agents the tools and information for promoting healthier, cost effective and environmentally responsible practices in real estate. The training is provided by EcoBroker International. The instructor was John Stovall. The class was held at the Douglas-Elbert Realtor Association in Colorado Springs.

This post outlines the learning objectives for the material covered in the first half of the third day of the three day course. I am taking the course again to become an instructor for the EcoBroker Designation. The training is divided into three days with each day covering a specific module. Today’s session is titled EcoBroker Green Market Advantage.

How Green Affects Your Real Estate Practice

• Understand and apply the Diffusion of Innovations principles to the concept we call the “green market.”
• Realize that the Diffusion of Innovations principles and actual market performance demonstrate that energy and environmentally sound marketing is moving into the mainstream market.
• Learn to position specific features of a home to appeal to market segments such as the Cultural Creatives group.
• Be prepared to support the consumer’s perception that green equals value.

 Green Misconceptions

• Be prepared to correct misconceptions about some commonly overused and misused terminology in the green market.
• Know how to identify “greenwash.”
• Know how to avoid the use of “greenwash” when describing the features and benefits of a property, product or practice in real estate.
• Learn the practices that may have been problematic in earlier green modifications or practices, and be able to describe the current best practices that have solved those problems.
• Assist buyers and sellers in analyzing price, cost, and life cycle cost when considering comparable properties, products, or upgrades.
• Understand that making specific factual statements is an appropriate means of limiting professional risk while also limiting a client’s risk.

 Adding Value to Every Transaction

• Assist buyers or sellers in translating property characteristics into monetary value during a transaction.
• Provide resources for and demonstrate the value of specific improvements or energy savings in the marketplace.
• Compare the performance of typical homes to homes with high-performance features.
• Develop a value proposition statement for the enhanced service provided by a Certified EcoBroker® or Ecosociate™.
• Use basic sales techniques in conjunction with green knowledge to provide extraordinary service.
• Provide an orderly step-by-step process for marketing a specific ENERGY STAR®-certified property.
• Develop a competitive strategy to maximize the value of green training.
  

I would encourage any agent interested in promoting green practices in real estate consider obtaining the EcoBroker Certified Designation.

Click Here to View Denver Energy Star Certified Homes For Sale

Contact Me Today For More Information

Or Call Me At 720-771-5594

Click Here to Search More Denver and Boulder County Homes For Sale

If you or someone you know is interested in buying or selling a home in Boulder or anywhere in Denver Metro please call me. I can help you learn more about the area, and I can assist with all types of real estate transactions. I am also a Certified EcoBroker specializing in energy-efficient homes and environmental practices in real estate across the Front Range.

Please feel free to call me at 720-771-5594 or visit my website at E3GreenHOMES.com

Previous Post: Colorado EcoBroker Certified Training Energy Advantage Part 2/2

Colorado EcoBroker Certified Training Energy Advantage: Day 2, Part 2/2

The EcoBroker Certified training program is designed to give real estate agents the tools and information for promoting healthier, cost effective and environmentally responsible practices in real estate. The training is provided by EcoBroker International. The instructor is John Stovall. Classes are being held at the Douglas-Elbert Realtor Association in Colorado Springs.

This post outlines the learning objectives for the material covered in the second half of the second day of the three day course. I am taking the course again to become an instructor for the EcoBroker Designation. The training is divided into three days with each day covering a specific module. Today’s session is titled Energy Advantage.

Energy-Efficient Insulation

• Be able to describe the benefits of adhering to the recommended levels of insulation in a home.
• Understand and explain the measurement of insulation effectiveness and R-values.
• Become knowledgeable about and able to distinguish between the different types of insulation available and recognize some of the benefits of each type.
• Explain the benefits of upgrading insulation in an existing home.
• Identify and qualify professionals for various insulation projects.

 Energy-Efficient Appliances

• Be able to describe the importance of energy-efficient appliances in relation to cost benefits.
• Explain the significance of the Energy Star label on appliances.
• Explain the significance of the required Energy Guide label.
• Demonstrate how a buyer or homeowner can use various resources to estimate the savings from a specific efficient appliance.
• Understand and explain how to differentiate, calculate and compare purchase price and life cycle costs.
• Be able to identify and recommend third party resources for product comparison.

 Building Orientation

• Recognize and explain the potential benefits and/or detriments of the different orientations of available homes you are showing to a buyer.
• Understand the importance of building orientation for solar control.
• Recognize the elements of passive and active solar installations.
• Explain the necessity of professional testing to determine the effectiveness of existing solar installations.
• Understand how to investigate and qualify appropriate solar contractors and consultants to assist clients.

 Solar Technologies

• Understand the difference between passive and active solar installations.
• Be aware of the many types and designs of solar systems and provide resources for an owner or buyer seeking information on an existing or new system.
• Stay current on solar specialties such as photovoltaic (PV) panels and photovoltaic roofing shingles.
• Describe the difference between off-the-grid and grid-connected photovoltaic installations

 Green Buildings and Energy

• Understand and explain some of the available types of green buildings.
• Understand and explain the characteristics of various national, regional, and local green building programs and certifications.
• Determine whether a building has been certified by a recognized program.
• Explain that previously certified properties may need to be rated to measure current performance.
• Understand and explain the competitive advantages of a high-performance home.

The third day will cover the Green Home Market and give EcoBrokers the tools for promoting Green Home features and benefits.

Click Here to View Denver Energy Star Certified Homes For Sale

Contact Me Today For More Information

Or Call Me At 720-771-5594

Click Here to Search More Denver and Boulder County Homes For Sale

If you or someone you know is interested in buying or selling a home in Boulder or anywhere in Denver Metro please call me. I can help you learn more about the area, and I can assist with all types of real estate transactions. I am also a Certified EcoBroker specializing in energy-efficient homes and environmental practices in real estate across the Front Range.

Please feel free to call me at 720-771-5594 or visit my website at E3GreenHOMES.com

Previous Post: Colorado EcoBroker Certified Training Energy Advantage Part 1/2

Colorado EcoBroker Certified Training Energy Advantage: Day 2, Part 1/2

The EcoBroker Certified training program is designed to give real estate agents the tools and information for promoting healthier, cost effective and environmentally responsible practices in real estate. The training is provided by EcoBroker International and is being held at Doublas-Elbert Realtor Association in Colorado Springs.

This is the second day of the three day course. I am taking the course again to become an instructor. Today’s session is titled Energy Advantage. Listed below are the key learning objectives for the first half of the subject areas covered today.

Energy Ratings and Green Financing Options

• Learn how to identify a qualified home energy rater
• Understand how to assist clients in evaluating the results of a home energy rating system report and then formulate questions for the energy rater.
• Explain to clients the benefits of using a home energy rating when applying for an energy-efficient mortgage or other types of green financing.
• Be able to assist buyers with estimating the financial benefit of energy savings and the impact of those savings on monthly ownership cost.
• Understand and be capable of describing the value of an Energy Savings Performance Contract to a commercial building owner or operator.
• Evaluate the merits of future value financing to a proposed purchase or renovation project.
• Identify reliable energy-efficient’ financing resources.

 Energy-Efficient Windows

• Be able to discuss the benefits of energy-efficient windows including the comfort factors related to multiple pane insulated windows, alternative glazing and framing materials, and Low-E coatings.
• Understand and explain the units of measurement for window performance and be knowledgable about the values that represent superior performance.
• Know how to avoid generalized and potentially inaccurate statements about energy-saving performance of green homes.
• Know how to identify and recommend qualified experts and contractors for consultation, testing and upgrade projects.

 Energy-Efficient Heating and Cooling

• Be able to explain the terms used to describe requirements and performance of heating and cooling systems
• Understand and be able to describe the effects of humidity control and extremely dry air on personal comfort.
• Be capable of educating clients about the comfort and financial benefits of properly designed and sized heating and cooling systems including Energy Star qualified equipment.
• Understand and explain the benefits of proper ventilation and air exchange systems.
• Become knowledgeable about indoor air quality and the benefits of various air filtration and purification systems

Each of the above topics included discussion about how to identify, qualify and select the appropriate experts and contractors to use to provide the best service and to help minimize risks. The afternoon session continued with several other topics related to Energy Efficiency. I’ll summarize the learning objectives of those topics in my next post.

Click Here to View Denver Energy Star Certified Homes For Sale

Contact Me Today For More Information

Or Call Me At 720-771-5594

Click Here to Search More Denver and Boulder County Homes For Sale

If you or someone you know is interested in buying or selling a home in Boulder or anywhere in Denver Metro please call me. I can help you learn more about the area, and I can assist with all types of real estate transactions. I am also a Certified EcoBroker specializing in energy-efficient homes and environmental practices in real estate across the Front Range.

Please feel free to call me at 720-771-5594 or visit my website at E3GreenHOMES.com

Previous Post: Colorado EcoBroker Certified Training Environmental Advantage Part 2/2

Colorado EcoBroker Certified Training Environmental Advantage Part 2/2

The EcoBroker Certified training program is designed to give real estate agents the tools and information for promoting healthier, cost effective and environmentally responsible practices in real estate. The training is provided by EcoBroker International.

The training is divided into three days with each day covering a specific module. The module for day one is titled ‘Environmental Advantage.’ This post covers the learning objectives for the afternoon session which includes asbestos, indoor air quality, historical contamination, and green buildings and health.

 Asbestos

• Understand and explain how asbestos contamination issues may be important in real estate transactions.
• Explain the basics of the health hazards related to asbestos exposure
• Be able to locate and screen trained professionals for testing, risk assessment and abatement contracting when needed.
• Help clients formulate plans for dealing with asbestos contamination.
• Understand the contract amendments and extensions used to provide time for resolution to mitigate while remaining under contract, when needed.

 Indoor Air Quality

• Help educate clients about indoor air quality issues including possible relationships to allergies, asthma and other respiratory concerns.
• Learn how to recognize potential indoor air quality problems.
• Understand the practices and technology that can be used to help improve indoor air quality.
• Address common misconceptions related to sealing air infiltration and how it may compromise indoor air quality.
• Explain how ventilation and air transfer techniques can help maintain indoor air quality.

 Historical Contamination

• Explain significance of historical contamination
• Provide appropriate resources for clients to learn more about the area and/or property of interest.
• Describe Brownfield contamination concept and remediation and redevelopment possibilities
• Understand and recognize what historical contamination events may represent ‘common knowledge’ and how to provide appropriate disclosure of material facts
• Be aware of Phase I Environmental Site Assessments in commercial real estate and similar assessment options for residential sites.

 Green Buildings and Health

• Know the difference between various regional and national green certified homes.
• Be able to describe the potential health benefits of green buildings.
• Explain the comfort benefits and learn to provide accurate representation of green features.
• Understand how to avoid generalized green descriptions by relying on builder, and manufacturer descriptions of green building features and benefits.

 Similar to the morning session each topic included topics related to minimizing risks by proper use of disclosure and documentation. Tomorrow we’ll cover topics related to the Energy Advantage.

Click Here to View Denver Energy Star Certified Homes For Sale

Contact Me Today For More Information

Or Call Me At 720-771-5594

Click Here to Search More Denver and Boulder County Homes For Sale

If you or someone you know is interested in buying or selling a home in Boulder or anywhere in Denver Metro please call me. I can help you learn more about the area, and I can assist with all types of real estate transactions. I am also a Certified EcoBroker specializing in energy-efficient homes and environmental practices in real estate across the Front Range.

Please feel free to call me at 720-771-5594 or visit my website at E3GreenHOMES.com

Previous Posts: Colorado EcoBroker Certified Training Environmental Advantage Part 1/2

Colorado EcoBroker Certified Training Environmental Advantage Part 1/2

EcoBroker Certification is designed to give real estate agents the tools and information they need to promote, healthier, more cost effective and more environmentally responsible real estate practices. The Training is divided into three days with each day covering a specific module. The module for day one was titled 'Environmental Advantage.'

The topics covered in the morning session included Radon, Lead, Water, and Mold. The following are a summary from my notes list some of the learning objectives for each of these topics.

 Radon

• Explain the concern with radon gas and the potential need for testing in a real estate transaction.
• Reassure clients that most negative test results can be mitigated by using professional solutions.
• Learn how to assist clients to interpret the results of a professional radon test.
• Assist clients to formulate a plan to address issues around radon test results.

 Lead

• Explain the issues related to lead contamination in relation to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) pamphlet.
• Understand the potential sources of environmental lead contamination.
• Understand and explain the federal disclosure and documentation process related to the potential for lead contamination
• Help clients understand their options regarding lead testing and contract rights.
• Explain the difference between the different types of lead risk assessment and abatement contractors and how to use them.

 Water

• Understand how to recognize when clients will benefit from water quality information to support transactions.
• Suggest how clients can use water quality background (history) information to support their decision process.
• Understand how to protect clients by recommending professional water testing when appropriate.
• Help clients analyze water testing results and to formulate an action plan.

 Mold

• Learn about how to inform clients about mold contamination issues when needed.
• Explain the possible effect of mold contamination in relation to real estate transactions.
• Understand how to work with clients when property inspection reports reveal mold.
• Know how to locate and screen mold contamination specialists.
• Become proficient at providing contractual amendments and extensions when needed to provide time for remediation while remaining under contract.

For each of the above topics the sections also covered how to minimize risks by disclosure and documentation. In my next post, I'll list the learning objectives for the afternoon's topics.

Click Here to View Denver Energy Star Certified Homes For Sale

Contact Me Today For More Information

Or Call Me At 720-771-5594

Click Here to Search More Denver and Boulder County Homes For Sale

If you or someone you know is interested in buying or selling a home in Boulder or anywhere in Denver Metro please call me. I can help you learn more about the area, and I can assist with all types of real estate transactions. I am also a Certified EcoBroker specializing in energy-efficient homes and environmental practices in real estate across the Front Range.

Please feel free to call me at 720-771-5594 or visit my website at E3GreenHOMES.com

Previous Post: EcoBroker Certified Training in Colorado Springs

EcoBroker Certification Training in Colorado Springs

This week I’ll be attending the EcoBroker Certification training in Colorado Springs on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday the 15^th-17th. The class is being held at the Douglas-Elbert Realtor Association.

I already have the EcoBroker Certification but I’m attending to get additional training to become an instructor. After completing the course I’ll be qualified to begin teaching EcoBroker Certification training to other real estate agents nationwide. I am really looking forward to the process. I’ll post more about the training over the next couple of days.

Click Here to View Denver Energy Star Certified Homes For Sale

Contact Me Today For More Information

Or Call Me At 720-771-5594

Click Here to Search More Denver and Boulder County Homes For Sale

If you or someone you know is interested in buying or selling a home in Boulder or anywhere in Denver Metro please call me. I can help you learn more about the area, and I can assist with all types of real estate transactions. I am also a Certified EcoBroker specializing in energy-efficient homes and environmental practices in real estate across the Front Range.

Please feel free to call me at 720-771-5594 or visit my website at E3GreenHOMES.com

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