Environmental awareness is at an all time high, and it continues to climb throughout the world. Just recently across the border, you can find two new programs in effect, the American Clean Energy and Security Act and the Cash for Clunkers program.
These changes are not just happening in government and regulatory organizations, but in businesses and households as well.
There are the cap-and-trade limits on greenhouse emissions that will be having an impact on all aspects of business, especially real estate.
The implications of having to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is obvious, there will be a penalty levied by the government on those whose properties are less environmentally sound.
This additional cost will have to be taken into consideration on how markets and investors value properties.
This means that the value of properties of all types in the coming years will weigh heavily on environmental considerations. As real estate professionals we have to remain competitive in order to satisfy the new demands that capital will have in the 21st century.
As it stands, residential owners and homebuyers can access a range of governmental programs and incentives to improve their ecological footprint of their properties through greater energy efficiency.
The development of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) ratings to certify the degree of environmental soundness in the design, construction and operation of buildings across real estate sectors have raised awareness and knowledge of green building issues.
There are many buildings going up that are using greed building techniques, and using green building materials.
Housing is going for a change, and it is not a bad thing; helping our environment will create a better future for us and future generations to come.
More information about LEED ratings will be provided on another date, and it will be able to help you determine the environment soundness of your home.
Glen Chapman
Broker of Record with Club “100″ GMAC Real Estate
www.club100realestate.com
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