Monday, 8 August 2011

AGENTS GET ON BOARD WITH GREEN BRANDING

With recent hikes in energy bills the public are becoming more interested in the Energy Performance of property they are considering buying or renting.

Obviously the green credentials of the property do not represent the sole reason, or indeed the main reason, why a purchaser decides on a particular property, however, the EPC is now clearly on the check list.

Agents have an opportunity to advise the vendor/landlord to upgrade their property with insulation and renewable energy technologies with a view to differentiate the property and create a clear point of difference in the market place.

The EPC is currently tasked mainly with considering the energy efficiency of the property, so for example the EPC could suggest that more loft and cavity wall insulation is recommended. However, with the permission of the vendor we now also include a free renewable energy survey with our EPCs. This enables us to make recommendations on which energy source would work best and enhance the property to maximise its value.

Agents can then market the property with a Green Stamp and let potential buyers know how much they could save per year on energy bills based on the average property vs the property with the green investment.

Green upgrades represent the next big property refurbishment boom, now that many properties have new kitchens and double glazing the green potential of the property is one of the only untapped refurbishment options that will add value to property.
Add to this an increase in value by as much as 3% and there is a good argument for the vendor upgrading the property prior to marketing.

We can advise your agency on how to maximise this opportunity and deliver strategies, know how and right through to installation of renewable energy technologies for your clients.