How Green Are You? - TEST HOW GREEN YOU ARE BECOMING WITH A FEW SIMPLE REFLECTIONS
Over the past three weeks, this column has reviewed three different lists of features considered to be within the framework of becoming Green.  They were grouped according to Low-Cost, Medium-Cost, and High-Cost of installation.  It is interesting to listen to conversation and watch the behavior of individuals who are enthusiasts of becoming energy savers and protectors of the environment, which after all, is the essence of becoming Green. 
By asking a few questions, one can get a little insight about leanings toward becoming Green.  My close colleague, Jim Hogan with the Hogan School of Real Estate in Tucson, Az., has posed some questions that touch on a few topics that fall within the discussion of being Green, but the follow-on points  provide some evaluative basis for one’s position.  Think about these as starters :
1.     Do I find myself going around turning off lights in my home?  If the answer is yes, then consider the reasons behind the answer, such as:  Is it because my electric bill is too high? Or, is it because I hate our dependence on foreign oil? Or, is it because I want to set an example for my kids? Or, is it because I think everybody should be doing Green things?
2.      Have I considered installing solar panels on my home?  Some reasons may be:  It would give me a good rate of return.  Or, because it is the right thing to do.  Or, it will reduce air pollution.  Or, because my neighbors recommended it.
3.     Am I into recycling?  If so, which of the following may be my motivation?  Because I can get money for aluminum cans.  Or, even though it takes time and effort, it’s still worth it.  Or, because we are running out of landfills.  Or, because I am active in my neighborhood association.
4.     How do I feel about carpooling?  It’s a great way to save money.  Or, it’s something that everyone ought to be required to do.  Or, it’s an important way to reduce carbon emissions and air pollution.  Or, it is a good way to get into the HOV lane.
As one evaluates these items, and many others of similar effect and consequence, one can tune in to the movement that is taking place throughout the land with the encouragement to Go or Be Green.  One’s response is going to reflect economic well-being, background and experience frame of reference, as well as one’s personal cultural orientation.
It is important to remember that while there are many flag bearers and voices whispering to an associate or shouting with amplifiers to the masses, there is one central theme that runs through the heart of all the Green programs:  Will the effort result in energy efficiency and environmental preservation.

Green tip of the Week: 

Use leaves, shrub and tree trimmings and grass clippings as mulch and ground cover.
St. George REALTOR® Jim Coleman is Associate Broker and Partner/Owner of ERA Brokers Consolidated.  He Specializes in Residential, Investment and Commercial Real Estate, holding National Designations and Certifications of Accredited Buyers Representative (ABR), Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), Resort and Second Home Property Specialist (RSPS), Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES), and NAR’s new Green designation.  He was just notified that he will be recipient next week in San Diego at the NAR Convention of the Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) designation.  You can contact him by e-mail at Jim@JimColeman4Homes.com.  This and other columns are available at www.WinningTalk.com/articles.
 

Jim Coleman, ABR, ABRM, CIPS, CRS, GRI, DREI, e-PRO, Green, GRI, RECS, RSPS, SRES
“YOUR REAL ESTATE IS MY BUSINESS”
Partner/Owner and Associate Broker
ERA Brokers Consolidated
201 East St. George Blvd.
St George, Utah 84770
www.relorep.com