Danielle DeHart – a licensed Realtor with Residential Properties Ltd., who also has half a decade’s experience in property management – recently earned the EcoBroker designation from EcoBroker International. She took a moment last week to tell Providence Business News why such a designation is important.
PBN: You were certified as an EcoBroker. What does that mean?
DeHART: In short, it means that I can offer my client full value. I have joined the movement of professionals pushing the market toward more energy-efficient and sustainable features in homes.
The designation allows me to understand these issues and pass the knowledge along to homeowners and future homeowners, while providing me with a network of responsible vendors and resources to make green features come to life.
PBN: How long does the certification process take?
DeHART: EcoBroker International provides a self-paced learning module for professionals who are interested. I was excited by the material, so I found myself staying up late most nights until I was able to complete the final exam. Course work focuses on environmental issues, such as mold, air quality, energy efficiency technologies; sustainable-energy options; and mortgage options that make green features affordable to nearly everyone.
PBN: Are there many EcoBrokers in the Ocean State?
DeHART: According to the EcoBroker search feature, there are only two certified EcoBrokers here.
PBN: How will the distinction help you in the Rhode Island real estate market?
DeHART: Frankly, everyone is interested in conservation right now. Even if your focus is just on stretching your paycheck, I can help pair consumers with homes that will help preserve the environment and your budget.
National research indicates that 80 percent of consumers consider themselves “green-minded.” Incorporating green principals into large purchases is a logical step.
PBN: Do you think earning such a certificate will become an industry trend?
DeHART: I do. I feel strongly that we have an educated market here in Rhode Island.
People entering into any type of real estate transaction are going to be looking for answers regarding energy usage, which can be a major expense in any home or business. I feel that eventually, consumers will drive this to become an industry standard.
Residential Properties Ltd. is based in Providence and also has offices in Barrington, Cumberland, East Greenwich, Newport and the South County area. The company – founded in 1981 – has grown to more than 150 Realtors and 40-some support staff. For more information, visit www.ResidentialProperties.com.
Additional information about the EcoBroker program is available from EcoBroker International at www.EcoBroker.com.
