Asheville ECO-GREEN Real Estate

"At 5 am, in this paludal hinterland,                   
a lone roadside figure bristling  with electronic
and photographic gear must present a curious sight."

Indeed! And I know exactly who that lone roadside figure is...a REALTOR® out on the land looking for photographs that best represent his or her new listing.

S/he knows that when prospective clients go to Localism.com to search for properties of interest, the quality-laden photos  s/he places there will have an impact on their decision to contact or not contact her.

PHOTO taken at 5:00AM by J.T.Narrin, Photographer for the Firm
EDIT      J.T.Narrin, Photographer is MY SON ..a reason to smile

That REALTOR® could be any one of us.... It's happened to me...My client found me by searching online.
She Googled  green building , then "real estate for sale" in my home town (Asheville, N.C,), et voila, there I was courtesy of ActiveRain.   She read my BLOG. She even paid me the ultimate compliment of subscribing to it, although later she confessed she subscribed not because of my eco-wise ramblings, but because she loved the photos there!   She wanted data- how much would a 100AC  tract + home cost? Where was the nearest college campus?   and so forth.

Her initial email went something like this: "I read your BLOG at AR. You seem to be a knowledgeable REALTOR®. I've been spending lots of time online looking at listings. There's XYZ listing on realtor.com  that looks like it would be a perfect ...then she told me the data from her printout.

To which I responded, something like this:"Thanks so much for connecting with me. Sorry to disappoint you, but that property sold about three (3)weeks ago, however  If you will tell me what's most important to you in your search for the "right" place, I am here and ready for the challenge!" BTW, here's a vital  link to North Carolina's Law of Agency.  Please let me know that you have read and understand it."

Sounds simple enough, doesn 't it? But when you give it some thought, this whole process deserves some serious consdieration.

 Surveys and Questions.

1.  Real estate market surveys tell us that 70-80% of real estate clients begin thier search for properties online. That's old news to most of us by now.  But I've been thinking about how that trend could change things for all of us.
2. Do you think our role  changes  when we no longer are first in line personally to "turn on the house lights" to reveal the information our audience seeks? 
3. What affect online research has on our business when we greet the characters in the on-going drama of property sales and acquisition online?
4.  Do you think it's important to be ready to  "hit our marks" on that stage?

Just seems to me that it  makes sense to be ready competently to  interpret information our clients already have gained,  then to take on the role of problem-solver.

A problem-solver knows how to put a finger on, organize,  and manage the entire "production"...In the practice of real estate this means  making meaningful connections and coordinating the entire real estate transaction process.

 Making Authentic Connections Online ...and Off.  

In techno-terminology, connectivity and speed are almost synonymous. But I like to think of connectivity in terms of making authentic connections with my colleagues and clients in the good old-fashioned neighborly way,whether that is online or off.   To me, there's nothing like  personal investment  --that personal touch that weaves into a cooperative tapestry. 

Which brings me to the subject of community, local wisdom, Localism.com,  and how YOU think our articles and photos at Localism.com  meet the need for making real connections  that I believe to be at the very center of a successful real estate practice.

Let me know what you think!
green-o-lina

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When it comes to being an Eco-Star every home can shine
...even an old "castle"...

Simple  changes at home can add up to real benefits for your family, neighborhood and the world.  Here's an ever-expanding list of  things you can do to retrofit or GreenUP an older home  that Sharon Simms  over at the ECO-All-Stars Group  started .

Steve Dalton added to it, and that's how the "seed" that Sharon planted began to "sprout".  Soon, John Cilladi, REALTOR, EcoBroker, e-PRO  told us about a  fluorescent light bulb he has had since 1994 that is still going strong after 13 years.  WOW! Is that amazing, or what??

OK y'all! I'm liking this conversation.

 It's Spring! And I got to thinking "Spring Cleaning" ...and recycling. Did you know that according to the National Institutes of Health we generate about 208 million tons of municipal solid waste a year!  That's more than 4 pounds per person per day.                GLUNK!

SO! Recycle in your castle. You could  recycle glass bottles, save electricity and create countertops like this one by IceStone    that offers "  an environmentally friendly alternative to natural stone and solid surface materials. The non-porous, durable and heat-resistant qualities make them a good match for kitchens and bathrooms. <S> Because the material can be shaped, cut, inlaid or mounted it can used for of applications from backsplashes to countertops to flooring. Due to its high recycled content, IceStone materials can be used for LEED qualification."

By the way!  IceStone received a Silver certification from Cradle To Cradle (one of my favorite organizations)  for its commitment to environmentally intelligent design."

Here's the list...so far...
YOU ARE  MOST WELCOME to add your Spring GreenUP Tip for Older Homes

1.Tankless water heaters.  Very popular in Europe. Hmmmm. Maybe they know more about preserving castles.

2.Compact fluorescent bulbs. You can replace the incandescent bulbs, one at a time as they burn out. John's record for fluorescent bulb: 13 years! (see above)

3.Radiant Barriers. Reduce summer heat gain and winter heat loss, and thus lower heating and cooling costs. The barriers consist of a highly reflective material that reflects radiant heat rather than absorbing it. 

4.Solar Panels . Modular panels that can be designed to meet any electrical requirement, no matter how large or how small.

5. Weather stripping. Caulk and check is as needed. And check the insulation in your attic, ceilings, exterior and basement walls, floors, and crawl spaces to see if it meets the levels recommended for your area.

6. Natural stone and solid surface materials. Love this one (See link above)

7. Geothermal Heat Pump Systems. Replace your old one when the time comes. They use 25%-50% less electricity than conventional heating or cooling systems and save  money.

8.Task Lighting. Direct light where you need it. Save energy and money.Good for romantic cooking. Better than candlelight they tell me .

9. Renewable Energy.  According to Wikipedia this is "energy derived from resources that are regenerative or for all practical purposes cannot be depleted."   Try solar-powered outdoor lights . Consider, too choosing renewable energy from your utility to even producing solar electricity at home with photovoltaic (PV) cells. Also check out Wikipedia for more info on renewable energy in the form of:

•  
  • 1.1 Wind power
  • 1.2 Water power
  • 1.3 Solar energy use
  • 1.4 Biofuel
    • 1.4.1 Liquid biofuel
    • 1.4.2 Solid biomass
    • 1.4.3 Biogas
  • 1.5 Geothermal energy  

10. Sayeth the U.S. Department of Energy

Green-o--Lina!

 Photo courtesy of our Firm's photographer.

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Copyright © 2007 All Rights Reserved  Asheville ECO Real Estate: Trends, Legacies & The Home Place Greenolina

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We are now 101 members of the ECO-All-Stars!  

So....it may take me a few months to introduce y'all...but that's my intent,       
so hang on to your greenies! Each time I read about one of the ECO-STARS  I find myself smiling. I wonder if you do, too?...How could you NOT when you see photos like this one (to the right)?
 To me, there is a special  sense of community
that opens up as we get to know each other better.
Which one of these shining people do you think is our STAR today?

Hint: She has blond hair.

For me, I  find useful value-added factors real estate professionals can add to our toolboxes in the articles that we are highlighting. Your articles  offer practical remedies from which we all can benefit.  THANK YOU!

OK...I'm going to do this STARlight in a little different mode today..I am going to introduce one of our shining lights...and ask her to "pass the light on" by selecting a BLOG article she especially likes...and in so doing, shine the STARlight on that person... But before I so that, you may choose to hop on over to Wikipedia for a brief review of her specialty, home staging.

Today, the STAR light's on.....SHERON  CARDIN

A little bit about Sheron: SHERON tells us that the home staging trend in residential real estateis a great way to reach more people every day.  Good point, Sheron! I know that  you must  enjoy seeing clients (and REALTORS®)  learning the basics of good design through staging.

I've been reading Sheron's BLOG and am finding information that demonstrates her special skill! Obviously, her family is happy with the results! (See the photo above. Sheron's the blond on the left.)

Sheron's clients have ranged from Texas Instruments in San Juan Capistrano to Miss Arizona high atop a hill in Laguna Niguel. She even designed a custom home for a airline pilot that was four stories tall and shaped like a nautilus seashell. Sheron says, "That was interesting!"

Quote: Home is where the heart is, and the kids, the money, the stress, and the joy. I would love to see every home support the diversity of it's inhabitants by using simple techniques of cleanliness, color, and use of space. We can do that together.

Favorite style of home: Santa Fe Modern - Stucco and concrete with texture, color, and clean lines.

Food I love: Gourmet with my favorite ingredient; fish.

Some television shows I watch: American Idol, Dancing with the Stars, So you think you can dance, Brother's and Sister's.

Favorite Vacation Spot: Mexico!

Hobbies: Abstract painting on large gallery wrapped canvas with acrylics, cooking, sitting at the shore.

Eco-wise Article at the Eco-All-Stars: Recycling a Full Circle Moment by Craig Schiller.

 CONGRATULATIONS, SHERON...You're and ECO-Star!

a few of Sheron's contributions:

http://activerain.com/blogsview/55329/Thinking-Out-Loud http://activerain.com/blogsview/60362/Al-Gore-Needs-Your
http://activerain.com/blogsview/34010/Home-Staging-Tip-4

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Here's a chance to get to know each other better and to look into articles that offer practical remedies from which we all can benefit.  This feature shines the light on useful value-added factors real estate professionals can add to their toolbox when involved in eco-friendly transactions.

A timely follow-up to the Green is Red Hot Contest, it brings into focus the contribution of one of our AR members in terms of green awareness and how that relates to your real estate practice today and into the future. We hope  that it  will brighten our (already bright) AR community. 

Today, the STAR light's on.....MICHELE CONNORS
for her article on Green Awareness

That's her husband, Jeff who is currently with The University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill headed into his 7th season with the Tarheels.

ABOUT MICHELE:

 I am part American Indian and part French so I have a stubbornness to my personality           (they   say!)

I am an only child and married an only child..so our two kids have NO aunts or uncles!

I fell into my Real Estate career in 1995 while building a home..  I wanted to work but needed flexibility to not miss anything my children were involved in. Quickly I learned R.E. was the perfect career for busy moms if you learn how to balance the two and manage time. 

I am competitive in Real Estate but in my personal life I am more of the cheerleader encouraging others to be their best. I see the good in people and want them to see it as well. I enjoy being in my own skin. I love my life as a mother -wife and Realtor. I am also a daughter, granddaughter, foster mother , friend and child of God.

My Pet Peeve in Life ? I think adults play unfair in life- it really shows up in every profession.

I see way too much jealousy , greed and envy rear its ugly head in this world and find it really upsetting that one cant just be happy for the other when they do well or achieve something. Success is earned..we need to learn respect for others and appreciation for their accomplishments. Tearing them down to feel better about yourself is a cheap shot and well, others will think less of you for allowing jealousy to lead your actions. Next time you have something to say about someone- make it something positive or don't say it at all. Eventually you will find it isn't necessary to belittle others, let them worry about themselves, you worry about yourself. Respect yourself, respect others.

Favorite home- One with a view. I now live on a lake that borders the Newport River . I can see the Beaufort Bridge, NC port and all the wildlife you can imaging- Ibis, Geese, Egrets, Baby ducks, deer, Jumping mullet ,sea gulls, cardinals...

Food: Well I am one of the GRITS (girls raised in the south) and have a hearty appetitive! Love southern cooking- especially if Grandma is cooking. Prefer a good medium rare grilled steak and potato over a petite dish of anything "gourmet!" 

TV: anything is fine...nothing really out there I can rave about.

Favorite movies would be ones that are tearjerkers- Radio, I am Sam, Color Purple, The Notebook (Nick Sparks is my favorite author and a local )

Vacations : Any vacation with my family is a great one! We've been able to travel a lot. We prefer the warm spots and I would say our trip to St Thomas was pretty special.

Hobbies: I enjoy watching the sunrise- sunsets, always have....hundreds of pictures. So spiritual to me. I love quiet..I think it is the only child in me. I love taking photos of my kids, my two dogs Brutus and Meatball. Yatzee is my favorite game, and cards...family nites. I try to have family nite weekly just to gather together and do something interactive...Does tanning count as a hobby ? I love the sun- and have to have it-it is my happy pill!

Michele's Article: Coming out of the Closet- I Am Not As Green as I Should Be

It's an  Eco-wise Article at the Eco-All-Stars (We now have 99 Members)

Congratulations, MICHELE You're an ECO-STAR!
janeAnne, Moderator...AKA Green-o-Lina

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STARLIGHT ON..... DENA STEVENS

Dena  tells us the people she has met in her real estate practice have had an impact on her. She says learns from everyone she meets- the buyers, sellers, title people, REALTORS®, appraisers, down to the last receptionist. Each has had an impact on her business and she has learned something from every one of them. In fact, daily Dena  strives and pushes herself to learn something or experience something new.

Maybe you could guess by the fact that she 'wears a lot of green" that Dena is Pueblo Colorado's first Ecobroker, a  designation that helped to give her information to help customers who want a more energy efficient, sustainable and environmentally friendly  home.

Quote:  "' Do the Right Thing' is not just my tag line, it's what I believe."

Favorite style of home: South Western with kivas and hardwood floors

Food I love:  Mexican, Asian, Italian

Some television shows I watch: Greys Anatomy, Sell this House, Living with Ed

Favorite vacation spot: Jackson Hole and the Tetons

Hobbies: Day trips in the car

Eco-wise Article at the Eco-All-Stars (We now have 98 Members) : A BRIGHT IDEA

Congratulations, DENA! You're an ECO-STAR!
janeAnne, Moderator...AKA Green-o-Lina

We now have 94 members at the ECO-ALL-STARS GROUP...YAY!..

ECO-ALL-STARS! Let's get to know each other better! 
Here's an energy boost that is FUN,
and a chance to get to know each other better...

I'm hoping that it also offers practical remedies from which we all can benefit.
  This feature shines the light on useful value-added factors
 real estate professionals can add to their toolbox when involved in eco-friendly transactions.

A timely follow-up the the Green is Red Hot contest, in which she won a much deserved Honorable Mention, it brings into focus the contribution of one of our AR members in terms of green awareness and how that relates to your real estate practice today and into the future.

We hope  that it  will brighten our (already bright) AR community. 

Today, the STAR light's on.....SHARON SIMMS

Quote: It's wonderful to have a career where you can truly make a difference in people's lives - if they have the right home base, the rest of their life goes well. And in the meantime, we can make a good living and have fun. Real estate is truly wonderful.  

 Food I love:steak tartare,  Russian red caviar, Maine lobster, Hawaiian poke.

Some television shows I watch:I don't watch much tv. Interesting movies when they're on.

   Favorite vacation spot: travelling around Europe. also the Big Island on Hawaii.

   Hobbies: reading, travelling, dining out, writing.

   Eco-wise article at the Eco-All-Stars: http://activerain.com/blogsview/55526/How-green-are-your  

Check out Sharon's article! It contains practical information for all of us.

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Asheville, North Carolina is noted for incredible historic buildings. There is a great deal of interest in our area around historic preservation, as you might expect.  Many of us are at work to sustain the heritage and the sense of place that is Asheville ...and this  work involves preserving the unique historic resources we are so proud of here.

The Preservation Society of Asheville and Buncombe County founded in 1976,  has "provided critical leadership in local efforts to preserve the rich cultural legacy of the region through four primary areas of activity: advocacy, education, technical preservation assistance, and historic property intervention."

 You may have heard of the  mythological animal sometimes placed at the entrance of buildings to protect those who entered...the griffin.  Well...Asheville has its very own  griffin. When you come to visit or live here, be sure to see it at the Grove Arcade. . Why am I mentioning this? Because the griffinis Asheville's symbol  for   protection and preservation of  beautiful historic buildings. The Preservation Society has adopted it  and  each year accepts nominations from individuals, companies, organizations who all may  nominate projects, persons, or groups to receive the  Griffin Award.

The Griffin Award is  given for "outstanding preservation projects and individuals that further the goals of historic preservation in Asheville and Buncombe County."

Past awards have recognized a broad range of preservation efforts such as "residential or commercial rehabilitation; restoration; stewardship; new construction in historic districts; research/publication; leadership; interior residential rehabilitation; interior commercial rehabilitation; and adaptive reuse. "

No wonder Asheville is not only a treasured destination for many visitors, but home to creative people interested in a sustainable community.

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A timely follow-up the the Green is Red Hot contest, it brings into focus the contribution of one of our AR members in terms of green awareness and how that relates to your real estate practice today and into the future. We hope  that it  will brighten our (already bright) AR community. 

Today, the STAR light's on.....RANDY PROTHERO
for his article on subterranean nibblers...

STARLIGHT ON..... RANDY PROTHERO

Slogan:  "Not Just Another Pretty Face".

Quote: "Working with first time buyers and military families is very rewarding.Aggressive marketing programs and excellent service has earned me repeat business and referrals."

Favorite style of home: Custom designed homes that take best advantage of ocean views and natural breezes.  My perfect home has to utilize solar energy and smart home technologies.

Food I love: Italian

Some television shows I watch: American Chopper, Flip This House, Cops

Favorite vacation spot: Living on an island, I enjoy long road trips on the mainland.

Hobbies: Teaching chess to youngsters, volunteering in the community and attending my son's sporting events

Eco-wise Article at the Eco-All-Stars:

Subterranean Termites - What is the Safest Way to deal With Them?

 NEWS```

We're  starting a celebration out at the ECO-All-Stars Grouup  today!

ALL AR members are invited to join in the fun.Here's an energy boost that is not only fun, and not only a chance to get to know each other better, but also looks to offer practical remedies from which we all can benefit.  This feature shines the light on useful value-added factors real estate professionals can add to their toolboxwhen involved in eco-friendly transactions.

A timely follow-up the the Green is Red Hot contest, it brings into focus the contribution of one of our AR members in terms of green awareness and how that relates to your real estate practice today and into the future. We hope  that it  will brighten our (already bright) AR community. 

 The new feature is called STARLIGHT ON

Today, the STAR light's on.....PHYLENA HOUDE...
for her practical recycling tip.

STARLIGHT ON..... PHYLENA HOUDE

Quote: ". I love Real Estate and most importantly I love helping people find their dream, not just a house. ...  I have loved looking at homes for sale since I was a little girl and nothing about that has changed."  Here are a few things other things about me:

Favorite style of home: The Bungalow

Food I love: Mexican Cuisine

Some television shows I watch : The Young and the Restless, Scrubs, The Office

Favorite vacation spot: Florida

Hobbies:Genealogy,Home Decor Shopping, Spending time with my family, traveling

Eco-wise Article at the Eco-All-Stars: YOU Can Recycle, Too

Comment: After reading Phylena's article, I thought...! what a great opportunity for all of us at AR to contribute something practical!She inspired me...so I went on over to my county (Buncombe County..Asheville, N.C.) and found this:   "It's NOT my job" is NOT a phrase that can be used when it comes to proper management of garbage. It is everyone's job to reduce, reuse, and recycle. We produce over 5 pounds per person per day in Buncombe County. We cannot escape the fact that this must be handled some way; either by reusing, reducing what we use, recycling, or landfilling."

SO.. to Phylena's list
City of Atlanta
Dekalb County
Gwinnett County
Fulton County

 I added  ...
Buncombe County Recycling

add yours in the comments below...

The ol' juke box is playing all the Goldies... Gold Stars, that is! For the third time this week,  we  come together as a community to celebrate and to GIVE a BIG round of applause (AKA your comments) to our 1^st Place Winner. ..Newbie, LIZ FOLEY
You can tell in the first few minutes you meet her that she is a kind and generous person. You can also tell she's ethical and professional. That's the combination that adds up to make a real estate professional shine. How would I (janeAnne) know this? I looked at the testimonials on her Profile page, and have emailed back-and-forth with her. ..and I read her first BLOG entry...(<that's a hint.)

... a few more hints...
•·        She lived in 36 homes by the time she was 36.
•·        A REALTOR®, she sees herself as a member of a service-oriented community, with the ability to impact people's opinions, and open doors for them (literally!).
•·        Of  herself, she says, "I am not ‘green'.  Heck, I'm not even in the color spectrum of green, or olive, or pea soup.  But I admit it - it is time."
•·        Obviously that statement proves that she is very smart and has a clue! (editorial comment from janeAnne ;-))

•·SHE'S A NEWBIE!!!!  
The Winner's a Newbie,
The Winner's a Newbie!

Here are a  few representative comments on this NEWBIE's  article:...(please add YOURS!) 

• "_____, congratulations on your first post...and a mighty good one at that! Rick & Ines - Miami Shores Real Estate Professionals
• " ____, CONGRATS on the featured post!!  Your personality shines through in this fun and well-written post - and it's a great reminder for those of us not sporting green to begin thinking about it..".. Ann Cummings ~ Portsmouth NH & So. ME Areas
• " _____,  I think it is great that REALTORS are really stepping up and presenting real life green solutions for our industry." Dan Follett

SHINING THROUGH...

The  article donated by this Emerald -Green Gem connects the dots with a soft-touch and a smile.
Her story is an attention-grabber.   As on e of our Readers pointed out, " Lots of graphics make this well- thought out and constructed article a pleasure to read which in the long run helps readers to begin their part in helping our HOME and Homes on Earth.

THIS NEWBIE gives us a delightful, fun-filled and informative read that offers
 take a look around YOU practical steps for REALTORS® and All. Her research shows and reaches out to touch her audience. Here again is a call to personal involvement that  captures the spirit of stewardship and brings it home to the real estate profession which is what the contest was all about.

So gather ‘round the juke box
Lift your glasses high,
It's a night for celebrating,
An eve when shamrocks fly,
And all of us are graced with luck,
And humor and a song,
For Liz Foley's told a winning tale,
In which we all belong!

May we present the 1^st Place Winner of the First Annual GREEN is Red Hot Contest...

C O N G R A T U L A T I O N S    L I Z    F O L E Y

"Kermit sure had it right - it DEFINITELY is not easy being "green",
especially in a career  that requires marketing (translation: lots and lots of paper),
driving (translation: showings, fuel consumption),
electronic tools (translation: computers, cell phones, PDA's). 
So as an admittedly un-green REALTOR®,
what can I do, both personally and professionally, to color me green?

With these words, L:iz  opened a conversation in which all of us can participate. Her  article, Kermit had it right - it ISN'T easy being green!   brings home  to all of us in the real estate profession that, as you say, " There are so many other things we can do, and we need to do.  Stewardship of this planet we call home is in our hands."

Thank you for being part of the Active Rain Community, and Congratulations, LIZ!

  The prizes for 1st Place are:

• 400  bonus points
• The Article is Featured today on ActiveRain
• The Article will receive a Gold Star and be Featured at ECO-All-Stars
• Pure Possibility

So that's it for now...Hope to see y'all again Next time this year...In the meantime, you are invited to join the ECO-All-Stars who sponsored this Contest and the amazing display of talent, energy, and heart in the articles it produced, as we look into the  Red Hot Green market trend and positive futures for all concerned.

A LUCKY CHARM TO ALL......" may the road rise up to meet ya'..."

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UPDATED  MARCH 17th, 2007 

 A FEW OF THE GREEN STARS~"Honorable MentionS" 

• Take Action. Inspiration Will Follow. by Jeff Turner
  Where does green begin?  By Rick & Ines - Miami Shores Real Estate Professionals
  Doity Laundry: Nevada Green Challenges & Some Green Saving Tips! By Renee Burrows
  Green Awareness - Where Did it All Begin? by Bill Westel 
   HELP -- I AM DIRECTIONALLY CHALLENGEDby Joan Whitebook
  A Consumer's Guide to Conservation Communitiesby Corey Atherton
  ,GREEN-IS IT RED ???? DOES IT MATTER ???  by Joan Mirantz CBR GRI
  What constitutes Quality of Life? - Green Awarenessby Eloise Gift, e-PRO, GRI,       and
• Thinking Out Loud...Sheron Cardin -

PLEASE GIVE THEM A ROUND OF APPLAUSE(your comments on their articles) ....YAY!...here's to y'all...you win a four-leaf clover, a shamrock on your doorstep,  and, the juke box playing YOUR  tune~

" shah-boom-shah-boom--dee-ah-dah-dah-dah-dah-dah!..
" shah-boom-shah-boom--dee-ah-dah-dah-dah-dah-dah!
" shah-boom-shah-boom--dee-ah-dah-dah-dah-dah-dah!
 Life could be SO GREEN,sweetheart!"

1st PLACE WINNER News

We will announce the the First Place Winner .....around 5 PM
 on St. Patrick's Day, Saturday, March, 17! 
You're invited to the celebration.  

GOOD LUCK TO ALL......" may the road rise up to meet ya'..."

iN THE MEANTIME,  GIVE a BIG round of applause (AKA comments)
FOR 2ND Place Winner, CRAIG SCHILLER\/

A Wee Bit About Him~~For those of you who are fans of CRAIG'S, it will come as no surprise that he is one of the esteemed winners in the Green is Red Hot Contest.  He understands the  willingness and importance of "giving back"... knows a lot about improving photos used in advertising homes that are for sale, and, believe it or not...never really wrote until he arrived at the Active Rain Community! Seriously!
(New Members take heart!...hint, hint)

"I am so glad you shared this post. Over the past few years I have made serious attempts to cut back and to live simpler with a smaller "footprint". ...<S> trying in ways that are doable and committing to working on the ones I have not tackled yet." James Frazier"...this is gold star stuff here. What a thoughtful conclusion."  Carole Cohen "Thanks for the post. Speaking volumes as usual."  William Collins, Broker Associate

SHINING THROUGH...Our 2^nd Place Winner

Recycling a Full Circle Moment. The  article donated by this Emerald -Green Gem really connects the dots. Our Star absolutely captures the spirit of stewardship and brings it home to the real estate profession which is what the contest was all about.  

 T'is  one Fine Example of the energy and spirit, the very real power of shared knowledge.

Craig Schiller Recycling a Full Circle Moment

Congratulations Craig!

Your article talked to us about how we real estate professionals fit in the "green" market picture...and how we can get up to speed in the that market. Just like dancing, there's a lot to learn!   We have to consider results we might expect... think about what really works for us and our clients...get our minds and hearts involved. ...and look at  what rewards we think actually will show up, and on what levels... while de-cluttering, as you point out.

Great advice for real estate professionals, stagers,  and our clients!

Hey! Is he wearing Green? Nah!

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The RESULTS are in! We're firing up the ol' juke box and inviting everyone at Active Rain to  come together as a community to celebrate andto GIVE all the participants and the winners a BIG round of applause (AKA comments)

TO ALL PARTICIPANTS... THANK YOU

You are emerald-green GEMS!! The entire collection of "tunes" at The Eco-All-Stars Group  shines.  Sure and Begorrah, you inspire this community.

Your articles talked to us about how we real estate professionals fit in the "green" market picture...and how we can get up to speed in the that market. Just like dancing, there's a lot to learn!   We have to consider results we might expect... think about what really works for us and our clients...get our minds and hearts involved. ...and look at  what rewards we think actually will show up, and on what levels... All this was covered in your articles. Thank you!

SELECTING ARTICLES TO "PLAY"... A DIFFICULT TASK

Active Rain Community members offered us over 50 thoughtful, thought-provoking, informative, good-natured, compelling, and fun-loving articles. Each deserves a star for spirit and quality and for what it contributes to the overall energy here at AR.  

Although reading the articles was delightful, it turned out to be quite a task, because we had the happy problem of so many great choices. How could we select just a few from the many excellent ? 

Dena, Gena , and I (janeAnne)  individually read the articles, and then came together to share our thoughts and findings. This contest produced such amazing results, that all we could think to do was to create a "play list" and place green stars along the way... (MORE ON THIS LATER)

SHINING THROUGH

Finally, after much consideration, we found a TIE...and selected two (2)
Third Prize Winners. ..

 DRUM   rollllll..... without further ado, here are

 Jeff Turner - Solar Energy Heating Up? ..Jeff gets the point across and is easily understood. He absolutely captures the spirit of stewardship and brings it home to real estate professionals.  

AND 

Lola Audu- .... Green Confessions of a "Gen Y" Mom.  
(already Featured at AR) This article is right from the heart. It represents an authentic voice inspiring positive futures.

CONGRATULATIONS and 10,000 Happy Bows!
Congratulatory Comments on your articles will surely reflect the appreciation we all feel for your energy for this project!

 THE "POT OF GOLD"

• 200 bonus points for Third Place
• The Article will be Featured today on ActiveRain
• The Article will receive a Gold Star and be Featured at ECO-All-Stars

We will announce the Second Place Winner tomorrow ...
and the First Place Winner will be disclosed on St. Patrick's Day, Saturday, March, 17!   

GOOD LUCK TO ALL......" may the road rise up to meet ya'.."

Edited...The GREEN LADY SPEAKS!     

UPDATE.Like American Idol, your comments on the Green is Red Hot articles  at the ECO-All-Stars Group. have power.     You have a voice in this contest, so let your comments be the green moss beneath the feet of the participants.                                             

As far as we are concerned ALL participants are winners and get the Green Light a nd a Gold Star. THREE of those winners will be posted  at-the ECO-All-Stars Group, Thursday, Friday and Saturday...

Three Readers are on the amazing task or reading articles and Your Comments.

NEWBIES AND OLDIES..

G O  O D Luck!

in the Green is Red Hot, This Sounds Like FUN! Contest at the ECO-All-Stars Group."

Registered to participate in the contest:

• Liz Foley
  Jeff Turner
  Lola Audu
  Sue Argue
  Rick & Ines
  Joan Mirantz
  Randy L. Prothero
  Eloise Gift
  Craig Schiller
  Bob Sharpe
  Bryant Tutas
  Corey Atherton
  Sharon Simms
  Leigh Brown
  Gloria Price
  Mitchell Jamel
  Jim Lee
  Lou Jewell
  Joan Whitebook
  Renee Burrows
  lynne pope
  Denise Brophy
  Sheron Cardin
  Tony Marriott
  Kelley Eling
  Tricia Jumonville
  Lisa Kauffman Tharp
  Jacqulyn Richey (Charles)
  Bill Westel
  William Robbins
  David Spencer
  Sami Forrest
  Sara Goodwin
  Kevin Caldwell
  Arlene Brown
  Michele Connors
  Ginger & Roger Sala
  Bob Sharpe
  Rich Schiffer
  John Cilladi
  Teri Barton
  Lloyd Nichols
• Kristal Kraft

CONTEST IS OVER< LOOK FOR RESULTS starting tomorrow! .  They will be posted at the  ECO-All-Stars Group

• The thought and energy that has gone into the articles is impressive and worth your time to read and comment on.

 Prizes

· Gold Stars for the winner and two runners' up
· Your article featured at ECO-All-Stars Thursday, Friday and Saturday
· Rainmaker, Caleb http://activerain.com/caleb says...
 "  I'll be adding an extra 400 points to wining entry and 200 for two runners up."

 ...and may you find a pot of gold and a real leprechaun hiding where you didn't  even expect him ...
maybe even in a tree right out your own back door!

 green-o-lina!

#####

The GREEN LADY SPEAKS! Here's the latest list of participants

"I'm turning green right before your eyes!   
          Are you just sitting around smoking a cigar 
and missing the deadline to enter the lucky
Green is Red Hot, This Sounds Like FUN! Contest!??

The clock is ticking. The bloggers are blogging, and the entries are arriving at our door step over at the
ECO-All-Stars Group.

Registered to participate in the contest:

Liz Foley
Jeff Turner
Lola Audu
Sue Argue
Rick & Ines
Joan Mirantz
Randy L. Prothero
Eloise Gift
Craig Schiller
Bob Sharpe
Bryant Tutas
Corey Atherton
Sharon Simms
Leigh Brown
Gloria Price
Mitchell Jamel
Jim Lee
Lou Jewell
Joan Whitebook
Pat "Tree"
Renee Burrows
lynne pope
Denise Brophy
Sheron Cardin
Tony Marriott
Kelley Eling
Tricia Jumonville
Lisa Kauffman Tharp
Jacqulyn Richey (Charles)
Bill Westel
William Robbins
David Spencer
Sami Forrest
Sara Goodwin
Kevin Caldwell
Arlene Brown
Michele Connors
Ginger & Roger Sala
Bob Sharpe
Rich Schiffer
John Cilladi
Teri Barton
Lloyd Nichols
Kristal Kraft

And it's a fine-lookin' display, sure and begorrah!...  IF I missed anyone,  let me know

SUMMARY from janeAnne...  Monday. March 12...3:00PM...
Only two(2) more days to enter.

40+ people have said they will participate in the contest, so far ..so there's still time for you to let me know you are sending an article... (We would like 50+ to enter, so please consider sharing your perspective!)

• You don't have to join the ECO All-Stars to participate, but be SURE to let me know you want to enter, and tag your entry "Green Awareness"!  (You'll get the news on the green front if you join the group.)
• 83 people have joined the ECO-All-Stars Group
• The thought and energy that has gone into the articles is impressive and worth your time to read and comment on.
• (This space is reserved for pure possibility and good fortune!)

A "Wee Bit" of Lucky Green Philosophy, an Invitation, and Article Ideas

As Jeff Turner mentioned in Take Action, Inspiration Will Follow  "We can sit around waiting for a great wave of ecological inspiration to kick us in the butt, or we can simply, locally, actively begin doing something... anything. If we do, inspiration will find us."

THAT being said... This Contest Is a Call to Action.. As professionals, we stand at the gate of positive futures.. It's a mighty powerful position in which to find yourself....SO...Read the contest guidelines and then enter one or two of your articles!

   Newbies...This could be your lucky day! 

EVERYONE is invited to give us your personal take on/experience of/musings about the Green is Red Hot Trend. The deadline to enter those thoughts (300+ words) is NOON, Wednesday, March 14^th. Winners will be announced and featured on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, March 17^th when some of you may be doing more than writing about Green is Red Hot.

Article Ideas:  Interviews ...with the Experts... Interviews with Your Kids on Energy Efficiency, on What they Think the world will be like when they are your age, etc. ....Humor that makes a good stewardship point,...Your words on the subject of Alternative and Passive solar energy, ECO-villages, Sustainable Neighborhoods and Communities,  Native Plants and Landscaping...How Green Staging Can Model Change...Personal experiences in Your Back Yard, Neighborhood,Business.......  UNIQUE, lively, informational and compelling articles with a positive, fun spirit.

 TYPE E'S....Artists, and Photo Nuts...Let us discover your views on the subject of this Trend. Oh! AND...We love photos! Photo essays count! (You only need 150 eco-wise descriptive words)

A "Wee Bit" on the Pot O' Gold!  

• Gold Stars for the winner and two runners' up
• Your article featured at ECO-All-Stars this coming week
• Rainmaker, Caleb http://activerain.com/caleb says...
 "  I'll be adding an extra 400 points to wining entry and 200 for two runners up."

AND FINALLY...For those of you who missed the original post, here's a link to our last update  . Go there. It has all the information you will need to participate.  "Green"  G O O D  LUCK   to all !

  REMINDER>>>TAG YOUR ENTRIES "Green Awareness"...     <<<<<  or I may miss it!

...and may you find
a pot of gold
and a real leprechaun
hiding where you didn't  even expect him ...
maybe even
in a tree right

out your own back door!

 green-o-lina!

#####

He opened our office door, stepped inside. The day was typical for Asheville, N.C where the real estate market is strong, and so are the people. The River was shining. A day created for possibility.

 So why was this person looking as if he had been pecked by a family of hungry woodpeckers? He started right out,

"What do you guys do all day, anyway? Sit around and wait for someone to walk in the door? Show him one house and collect a huge commission?"

I thought to myself, "WOW! Poor guy. He doesn't have a clue, or else he has been disappointed in the past."  I said, "You know what, how about if you spend the day with me and find out for yourself what a REALTOR® does? Let's make an appointment for next Wednesday...I'm booked until then...and by the way...my nickname's  Green-O-Lina, what's yours?"

"I'm John," said he. "And you're on, Green-o-Lina."
 Was he ever in for a surprise.

 Over the years, I've asked myself how to make the most meaning of our real estate practice here in Asheville. We talked about it and chose  "Do well while doing good," as the firm's motto. Our mascot is the Ivory-Billed Woodpecker,thought extinct,re-discovered and now the symbol of a second chance  and conscientious stewardship. Maybe all the guy needed was that second chance to find out for himself that REALTORS®  are involved in work and value-creation. REALTORS® play an important role when it comes to our clients. So much goes on behind the scenes from which our clients may benefit, but may be unaware. Take for example this month's meeting here in Asheville of REALTORS® who hold the ECO certification approved by the  North Carolina Real Estate Commission, where were were hard-at-work behind the scenes. Aware of the trend toward consumer interest in LEED certified  green-built homes, we were preparing not only by educating ourselves, but by making choices in terms of how to share the benefits with our potential clients through public education.  Aren't we all  looking for the win-win-win situation?

But back to my surly visitor.
Little did he know that he had met a Land Specialist...
a Green-o-Lina...from Carolina!

Wednesday arrived, and so did he. He was smoking a cigar. I told him ..."No smokin' in the car." We had to go visit a surveyor, the appraiser, the environmental scientist, the 30+ acres we were in the process of due diligence on, and that was that. No smoking if he was going to ride with me. He smiled, tossed the cigar and climbed into my fuel efficient vehicle.

"I thought you sold houses," said he.
"Oh, from time-to-time, " I replied, "but mostly we work with large tracts of LAND."

" By the way," I inquired, What  "kind" of land would attract you? Agricultural land? Rural land? Urban land? Because today we are going to cover about 300 miles and see a working farm,  a co-housing development in progress,  a sustainable eco-village, a horse farm with  beyond-belief trails,a nature-education center, and end up on a small plot of urban land where construction is on-going on a  "green" office building."

With one of my famous Green-o-Lina grins, I added, " Whatever attracts you, by the end of this day, I bet  you will say you have paid your dues, journeyed many miles,  and have a new appreciation for what REALTORS®  do for a living."

Here's what I think: REALTORS®  get it! We know that change is a constant..possibly even more so these days. Like the cycles of life, change happens. Relocation. Retirement. Moving on.  Scaling down. More and more people see a trend happening. The changes may be subtle or not-so subtle, but they impact the way we perceive our surroundings, and ourselves in the context  of opportunity.  Opportunity Knocks...if we take the time to gather insights from first-hand experiences, and are willing to learn along the way.

Would my guest come to see this? Let me know what you think.

Picture of Ivory-Billed Woodpecker courtesy of  Wikipedia

#####

Copyright © 2007 All Rights Reserved  Asheville ECO Real Estate: Trends, Legacies & The Home Place Greenolina

Lights, Camera, Action!

A number of real estate professionals actively have been joining the parade and acting on new information. The  stage was set and "the lights went on"  because they completed  ECO certification, a 36 hour hands-on course approved by the North Carolina Real Estate Commission.  That 36 hour course   makes it clear that sustainable homes reflect attention to detail which ultimately results in a top notch product in high demand by residential property clients.

As REALTOR® representatives of an "eco-savvy"  community, an amazing celebration of possibility unfolds as these professionals  become liaisons involved in an unique way with sustainability efforts.  I asked one such enlightened soul what he learned that could benefit his clients.

"We have learned about sustainable practices,  grants, wetland development, and reuse of materials. We have learned about energy and water efficiency practices and residential energy efficient design,  energy efficient lighting,  building envelopes,and energy efficient products...and much more that can really come in handy for the eco-conscious client," he responded.

"And how does what you have learned show up in a residential real estate transaction and pay-off for your clients? ," I asked

He smiled. " Well, on the residential side, especially with a trend toward green-built homes exploding in our area, and across our great nation, when we hear, ‘ I want to have an energy efficient home! I want renewable energy solutions and long-term minimal impact. I want green materials and a healthy environment for my family...'  I know what to do, " he assured me. "Energy efficiency pays off!"

For this REALTOR who is ECO certified, it was a real plus to know that the client he mentioned, who ended up building,  will save not only on her electric bill because her home is an Energy Star ®home,  but will also save on maintenance because of her choices in durable siding, decking, and roofing materials. The win-win-win continues when she saves  on water bills with low flow faucets and rain barrels, and her family breathes healthier air because of the fresh air circulation in the heating and cooling system and in the use of Low VOC  paints and flooring products.  

A green-built home generally is energy efficient,                         
has low toxicity materials, utilizes solar energy,
has little impact on the surrounding landscape,
and is environmentally friendly.

Across the country such homes are very attractive investments.
Here in the  Asheville, North Carolina real estate market
they are in high demand.
However, such prizes  may not be obvious to the untrained eye.                  
Take a look at one such home for sale in our area.
(see photo to your right)
Is it a gem? (Answer below)

I asked the ECO real estate pro about this.

"Not long ago, " he explained, "  one of our clients whose main concern was an energy efficient home, built with energy conserving materials, an active solar heating system,  a hot water/ radiant floor heating system, a solar electric (PV) system, and a backup provided by a 96 percent efficient boiler, was having problems finding such a gem.  It was gratifying not only to know what our clients were requesting, but to know where to find it, and/or to be the resource for the  resources and all-important connections. "

I believe in this context WELCOME HOME takes on new meaning, one that benefits all concerned.

Answer: You bet!

Copyright © 2007 All Rights Reserved  Asheville ECO Real Estate: Trends, Legacies & The Home Place Greenolina