Estate agents 'lack green home knowledge'

Eco home issues ignored by estate agents

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Wednesday, 27, Aug 2008 08:39

Estate agents were today rapped for their lack of knowledge over green issues.

Research carried out by the Energy Saving Trust (EST) finds 56 per cent feel that estate agents don't know enough about energy efficiency performance, even though buyers would be willing to pay a premium price for such properties.

Indeed, the EST argues the average buyer would be willing to pay on average £3,350 more for a green home, when compared to a less ecologically minded property.

There is also a clear appetite for clearer information, as two-thirds of householders would like more guidance from estate agents on the likely running costs of a home.

Commenting on the findings, Jon McGowan, of the EST, said: "It is encouraging to see the extent of which green measures have become a central factor when buying and selling houses.

"In the current economic climate, it makes sense to ensure that the running costs of the home you are living in, or buying, are as low as possible, as well as helping to cut down on your carbon dioxide emissions.

"Ensuring that a home is as energy efficient as possible is a great way to help make sure that you keep bills down over the longer-term."

The EST research also indicates failing to pay enough attention to a home's carbon appeal could make it harder to sell, as over three-quarters of those surveyed agree that having a 'poor' energy rating on their Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) could lead to buyers haggling over the price.

Furthermore, two-thirds agreed that, in light of the current economic climate, home-buyers are more likely to consider the EPC, to ensure a home has lower-running costs.

However, just this week the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) launched a campaign, in conjunction with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Rics), to have the government's home information pack (Hip) scheme redesigned.

The scheme - which sees buyers given access to the EPC for their potential property - was branded "not fit for [the] purpose" by the body.