It’s time for real estate companies to get more serious about going green, sustainability and being socially conscious. While the best motives for this may be a heartfelt desire to take better care of the planet, their environments and deliver a superior housing product, this isn’t a prerequisite. More real estate investors need to consider the benefits going green has to offer. The sooner they do, the better.
There are four solid reasons for real estate investing companies and individual investors to get a little greener, and fortunately a variety of easy ways to do it…
4 Reasons Real Estate Investors Can’t Afford Not to Go Green:
1. Demand
The sustainable living, green housing movement has become far more than a fringe movement. There are now Facebook groups with many more active conversations going on surrounding these topics than other forms of real estate. Plus, this has just become more main stream as consumers have become more aware, and builders have been incorporating green and sustainable features as standard. Recent NAHB surveys have shown energy efficient features to dominate the most in-demand elements home buyers are seeking. Where demand is high, homes are rented or sold faster.
2. Higher Premiums
Properties and communities that experience the most demand, not only sell or are occupied faster, but are also able to demand higher prices. This is no exception when it comes to being more Eco-conscious either. Don’t believe it? Just look at Elon Musk’s Tesla. This isn’t even about luxury either. As people are more aware of the downside of the old alternative, they are convicted to choose the superior option for their families and their own health.
3. Reputation
There has been a lot more competition coming into the real estate market over the last few years. Reputation and credibility are everything for real estate brands and independent investors today. Those which incorporate more socially conscious elements into their businesses can quickly and effortlessly distinguish themselves as being desirable to do business with. That can be worth millions of dollars in TV commercials and years of branding.
4. Who Can Do Business with You
While independent real estate professionals may still have full control over who they do business with; local government, federal government, other businesses and individuals don’t. They must choose to go with green suppliers and partners. So don’t cut yourself off.
3 Ways Real Estate Investors Can Get Greener
1. Property Improvements
Whether flipping houses or building up a portfolio of rentals, there are endless opportunities for incorporating greener elements. This ranges from sustainable landscaping to energy efficient appliance, installing solar panels and lighting. This doesn’t have to cost more. Often it can provide big savings or be offset by various credits.
2. Office & Operations
There are endless affordable and easy to implement opportunities to go greener in any real estate office whether it is an expansive corporate suite, retail storefront or on the sofa at home. This can range from being more conscious of paper product usage to using recycled and re-purposed materials for décor.
3. Support Sustainable Community Efforts
Those ready to go bigger can consider helping to improve their entire communities. This can include donating property for parks and sustainable farming or gardening.
