6 Solutions to Make Your Real Estate Business More Eco-Friendly

Climate change – which has been happening for decades now – is becoming much more real with activists like Greta Thunberg taking a stance against politicians who are refusing to take action. Meanwhile, other strides to raise awareness about the climate are happening in cities all over the world. New York City, for instance, just wrapped up their annual Climate Week. As one of the “hottest” issues being discussed today, you might be wondering what you can do to make small changes to impact the environment for the better. Even if it’s not something you care to do on your own, note that many of your clients and co-workers will be looking at you, anyway.

1. Go Paperless

If you aren’t doing so already, it’s time to try and go paperless. Keyword here is “try.” In this industry, it’s not always easy to go paperless when it comes to signing contracts and handling paperwork with all parties involved in a transaction. However, there are ways to keep all documents and signing electronic. Though, be sure to utilize services that allow you to safely do this by encrypting the documents. 

If paperless isn’t an option for you, there are two things you can do. Firstly, make sure that you recycle all you ink cartridges so they don’t end up in places around our planet where they shouldn’t be. Stores like Staples can help you with this. Secondly, consider utilizing eco-friendly printing solutions, such as printer paper made from recycled materials. 

Whatever the situation is, now is the time to buy yourself that iPad.

2. Use Energy Efficient Electronics and Appliances

Using energy efficient electronics and appliances, such as the lighting in your office or solar panels on your own home. Try to buy products that have the energy efficient symbol on them, and consider having a composter right in your office. Remember, all this stuff is not just for show – it will actually help you save money. 

3. Only Use Reusable Products 

Most real estate agents already have their reliable coffee mug and lunch bag. But, if you’re not quite there yet, consider, for example, to stop drinking out of plastic water bottles. This goes for everything you use on a daily basis. See what it is you have that you’re only using once – for instance, Ziploc bags – and try to change that.

4. Ride Your Bike to Work or Carpool

A nice car is a status symbol for many real estate agents – we get that. For some people, a nice car is used to show that you’re a successful businessman, while others may choose a nice SUV to show that they are family-oriented. Having a car may be a necessary part of your job, but if you can swing it, consider riding a bike to work (even if it’s just one day a week), carpooling with others, or using public transportation. And, if you must have a car, consider investing in an electric car. It’s not only good for the environment, but long-term, it’s also better for your wallet.

5. Partner with Green Companies

One way to be a more eco-friendly real estate agent is to work side-by-side with companies who are also putting the environment at the top of their priorities. Whichever companies or individuals you work with regularly, check that they are implementing eco-friendly practices into their own businesses as well. 

6. Market Accordingly

There are many green holidays that pop-up throughout the year that you can create market campaigns around. For instance, there’s Earth Day on April 22nd of every year or Energy Action Month, which is coming up in October. It goes without saying that you should not just use these holidays to your advantage when it’s convenient – you should strive to make a difference in your own life, while bringing in clients who will appreciate your efforts. 

Whether you “believe” in climate change or not, the reality is that global warming is a fact. Regardless of your own opinion, companies and individuals who do not make environment-first choices will start to lose business over those who do. 

What are you doing to create an eco-friendly environment in your real estate business? Let us know in the comments below!