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Increasing the energy efficiency of homes benefits
real estate professionals by helping homes sell faster. The financial
incentives for energy efficient homes offered by some lending
institutions can also increase the number of qualified buyers.
In addition, real estate professionals benefit from the increased
value of energy efficient homes. Because energy measures last
for years, they add to a home's resale value, too.
To take full advantage of the possibilities, real estate professionals must learn the basics of energy-efficient features and use them with prospective buyers. For instance, the home's siting may be an energy advantage. Carry a compass and notice where the sun rises, shines all day, and sets relative to the home's living areas. This information gives you additional features and benefits to share with prospective buyers, like noting they can watch the sun rise through the windows of the east-facing breakfast area or pointing out how a deciduous vine or tree on the south exposure will provide cooling shade all summer, but drop its leaves in winter to let the sun warm the home. By learning about the whole realm of energy-efficient heating and cooling systems and construction techniques, real estate professionals separate themselves from the rest by being better able to communicate a home's true value.