EcoBrokers: Realtors with Green Designation

The green building industry is experiencing incredible growth and the next five years are expected to bring even more. Real estate professionals are keeping up with new green designations that signify their expertise in the principles of sustainable design and how different aspects affect homeowners. EcoBroker International is one organization that offers realtors certification with a green edge.

The trend makes sense. Real estate professional have a responsibility to their clients to be current on the market. Today's market is greener than ever and the issues at the top of home buyers minds include energy-efficiency, indoor air quality and sustainable design.

Green building is a multi-faceted endeavor that has environmental, economic, social and health implications. The EcoBroker International program gives real estate professionals the resources, knowledge and certification to back the green real estate professional.

EcoBroker is a Colorado-based company that offers online courses in energy-efficiency, indoor air quality and sustainable design. Professionals who complete the curriculum earn EcoBroker designation. Since it started in 2003, EcoBroker has certified nearly 2,000 real estate professionals.

EcoBroker offers this on their program:

If you are a licensed real estate agent, earn the EcoBroker Certified® Designation while learning about the latest topics influencing the way your clients buy and sell real estate. EcoBroker helps you stay current with the growing green real estate market and the opportunities it presents. EcoBroker’s core curriculum offers innovative energy, environmental, and green strategies and tools for real estate professionals. Learn to reduce liabilities and increase buyer and seller satisfaction. Create competitive advantages in the marketplace and build business. The EcoBroker Designation is a positive and profitable way to differentiate yourself in today’s real estate market. Becoming an EcoBroker is a great opportunity for you to benefit your community and the planet, while broadening your base of training and earning more business.

What does this mean for homeowners and sellers? It's good news. Too often real estate professionals are left out of the picture when it comes to green building or building in general. The idea of course is that you don't need too many cooks in the kitchen. But realtors are meant to be the mediator between clients and customers. When that mediator is well educated and informed about green building everyone stands to gain.

In EcoBrokers, homeowners will find an advocate that can help them identify a healthier, more efficient and earth-friendly home. Sellers and contractors can use these accredited professionals to relay important information about properties and projects and know that the information is understood.

*Note: The information in this article is general advice and not meant as a substitute for personal guidance from a financial advisor, real estate professional or legal counsel. Although the author is a licensed realtor, the advice given in this article does not constitute any client contract or agreement between the author and the user. The author is not responsible for any losses, damages or claims that may result from your decisions.