A recent study conducted by the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) has revealed a significant increase in the involvement of real estate agents and brokers in buying or selling properties with green features. The 2022 REALTORS® and Sustainability Report sheds light on the growing importance of sustainability in the real estate industry, as well as the concerns surrounding extreme weather events. With half of the surveyed Realtors® assisting clients in purchasing or selling homes with green features, it is evident that sustainability is playing a pivotal role in consumers’ purchasing decisions.
Rising Interest in Green Features
The report highlights that 50% of agents and brokers surveyed have helped clients buy or sell a property with green features in the past year, a notable jump from 32% in the previous year. This surge indicates a growing recognition among real estate professionals of the significance of environmentally friendly features in today’s market.
Value of Energy Efficiency Promotion
Approximately 63% of respondents in the survey stated that promoting energy efficiency in listings holds substantial value. This finding demonstrates the increasing understanding of the benefits associated with energy-efficient homes among agents and brokers. Homebuyers are increasingly seeking properties that not only save on energy costs but also contribute to a sustainable future.
Client Interest in Sustainability
Over half of the agents and brokers (51%) reported that their clients displayed either a somewhat or very high level of interest in sustainability. This shift in consumer preferences aligns with the rising awareness of environmental issues and the desire for greener living. As a result, more potential buyers are seeking properties that feature eco-friendly elements such as solar panels and energy-efficient appliances.
Rooftop Solar Panels and Property Value
The report indicates that 77% of Realtors® observed the availability of properties with rooftop solar panels in their respective markets. This trend was most prevalent in the West (89%) and Northeast (86%) regions. Moreover, 36% of respondents believed that homes equipped with solar panels increased the perceived property value. This finding highlights the positive impact of renewable energy installations on both the environment and the real estate market.
Concerns Regarding Extreme Weather Events
The study also highlighted growing concerns among Realtors® regarding the impact of extreme weather events on the housing market. Approximately 34% of respondents expressed worry about the consequences of such events. This apprehension underscores the recognition within the industry of the need to address climate change and its potential effects on the real estate market.
Benefits of Sustainable Homes
Jessica Lautz, NAR’s Vice President of Demographics and Behavioral Insights, emphasizes the advantages that sustainable homes bring to homeowners. These benefits include cost savings from energy efficiency, improved indoor air quality resulting in better health, increased comfort and durability due to thoughtful construction and material choices, and potentially higher resale value. The focus on sustainability in recent years, as revealed by the survey, demonstrates that sustainable living is not only good for the environment but also a wise investment for homeowners.
Conclusion: The findings of the 2022 REALTORS® and Sustainability Report indicate a significant shift in the real estate industry towards embracing sustainability and green features. With half of Realtors® assisting clients in purchasing or selling homes with eco-friendly elements, it is clear that sustainability plays a crucial role in consumers’ decision-making processes. Furthermore, the concern expressed by Realtors® regarding the impact of extreme weather events underscores the industry’s growing awareness of climate change issues. As the demand for sustainable homes continues to rise, it is expected that the real estate market will witness further integration of green features and practices in the coming years.
Note: For more detailed information, the full REALTORS® and Sustainability Report is available from the National Association of Realtors®.
