C.A.R.’s New Site Goes Green

By Paula Hess

The next time a client inquires about a listing’s green enhancements or seeks more information about green homes, you can direct him to C.A.R.’s new green Web site, At home with green™ (http://green.car.org ). The site, which launched last month as part of C.A.R.’s Green Initiative, is a resource-rich destination for consumers and REALTORS® who are seeking additional information on green real estate topics and issues.

Green Reads

>> The site’s pull-down menus are easy to navigate and read and they offer a concise reference for those seeking to learn more about the emergent desire for energy-efficient and green-built homes. For instance, under the tab “Understanding Green,” the site provides consumers and real estate professionals with an overview of the importance of green real estate (for starters, homes are responsible for 21 percent of the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions and California’s Public Utilities Commission has mandated that new housing developments are “zero net energy” by 2020). What’s that? You’re a little fuzzy about the definition of zero net energy homes? The answers to this and many more consumer queries can be found on the site!

In addition, the site features the following tabbed sections: “Homeowners/Buyers,” “Green for REALTORS®” and “C.A.R. Goes Green.” With the first tab, homeowners and buyers will learn the financial and health benefits of green modifications and retrofits, as well as ways to green their homes or incorporate green into remodeling projects. The site also provides an overview of the existing green rating systems for homes and how to find a “green” REALTOR®.

The “Green for REALTORS®” tab will help educate you about a movement that, ultimately, could increase your value and role as an educator. Specifically, it contains an overview of the following: green terms and topics; “Green Principles”; tips for greening your office and home; information on green rating systems for homes and professional “green” designations for agents; marketing strategies and takeaways from other agents’ and associations’ efforts to go green.

The site also features a calendar of upcoming green conferences and educational opportunities and a robust search capability. Find the site at http://green.car.org/ .

Paula Hess is senior editor for California Real Estate magazine and At home with green™.