GLVAR AND MLS go green, promote energy-saving features

Paul Bell, president of the Greater Las Vegas Association of Realtors, said the association is adding several new sections to its MLS to highlight the energy-saving and environmentally friendly features built into Southern Nevada homes listed for sale.

"Besides being the right and responsible thing to do, these changes to our MLS will help us identify and market homes that save energy and help the environment," Bell said.

"We know the increasing costs and the environmental impact of creating energy are driving social and economic demand for greater energy efficiency. The importance of water conservation and air quality is expected to grow in the coming years, and properties with energy-saving features are expected to become even more desirable."

He said a greener MLS benefits everyone, "from the homeowner investing in better insulation to local builders who are utilizing new energy-efficient techniques. A green MLS contributes to a better environment and helps consumers save money in the long run."

As of June 14, he said local Realtors have been able to enter and view a wide range of new fields within the MLS that list and describe the green features incorporated into each property. Some of the new green and energy-efficient MLS fields include:

• New green features -- This field will show if an energy audit of the home is available, if the home has low-flow faucets, solar electricity systems and more.

• New hot water heater -- This will show if the home has recirculating hot water, solar water heating panels or a tankless water heater.

• Green certification -- This will list the certifying organization, year the home was certified and its green certification rating.

• Parking description -- This will show if the home has a hookup for an electric car.

• Baths -- This field notes if the home has dual-flush toilets or low-flow showers.

• Energy Star appliances -- This will show which appliances have met the Energy Star standard.

• Heating/cooling systems -- This field shows if a home has high-efficiency HVAC systems, programmable thermostats and similar features.

• Energy field -- This field notes insulated doors, windows and more.

• Utility information -- This section lists features such as solar panels and screens.

Bell said GLVAR is working with its members to make sure they fully understand and use the new features, encouraging them to provide as much detailed information on the property as they can when using the MLS, while ensuring they accurately describe the property.

He also praised the Realtors who volunteered to serve on GLVAR's 2011 MLS Committee and its Green Workgroup for working on these changes over the past six months.

GLVAR has also created a Green Tool Kit on its lasvegasrealtor.com website. It includes a glossary of terms, useful links, green home certifications and more.

GLVAR was founded in 1947 and provides its nearly 11,500 local members with education, training and political representation.