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How New MLS Data Fields Help REALTORS Sell Green Homes

What does an environmentally conscious buyer look like?  If that question created a distinct image in your mind, it is time to rethink the green movement.  

Once dismissed as features only a “tree-hugger” could love, rain cachement systems, solar panels and building materials made from renewable resources are quickly becoming the newly sought after amenities.   Incentives for builders to consider sustainability when building new homes, more consumer awareness of the long term environmental effects of permanent construction and increased media attention on “going green” is creating a market for homes that contain such amenities.  As buyers become more aware of long term cost benefits gained from using energy efficient and sustainable materials, the professionals that assist them need tools to search for these features in the MLS data and those representing sellers need the means to effectively highlight the special features available.

The MLS committee of dfwREALTORS acknowledged this need and put a task force to work to study the issue and bring forward a solution.   Led by Steve Habgood, Keller Williams Turtle Creek, the team reviewed the current energy features group as well as researched the various “Green” certifications and additional features that would be considered green friendly.  The group depended greatly on the knowledge provided by our experts that were asked to consult with the group and we give many thanks to those individuals – Beth Johnson, certified EcoBroker of Advocates Realty and Steve Saunders of TexEnergy Soluctions, a certified HERS rater.  Many thanks also to Jenny Stolarski, The David Grifiin Group for her participation and sharing of her personal knowledge of remodeling using sustainable products.   The MLS Committee approved the recommendations of the work group and forwarded them to NTREIS, where they were approved for implementation into the system.

The energy features group was expanded to include:

These have been added to the NTREIS input sheets and can be viewed in the system.

Two new feature groups will be added to the system on or about November 2008.  The first of these is to identify certifications and ratings that a home has earned. The second new feature group includes the following:

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