Certified Home Performance Report

By Ann Griffin  
 
The report presents an analysis of the market performance of third-party certified sustainable residential properties in the Portland and Seattle metropolitan areas.

In each location, a sample of third-party certified homes was selected and comparable homes were found. The author documents that certified homes in the Seattle metro area sold at a price premium of 9.6% when compared to noncertified counterparts, based on a sample of 68 certified homes. In the Portland metro area, certified homes sold at a price premium ranging between 3% and 5%. In addition, the certified homes stayed on the market for 18 days less than noncertified homes.
 
These results are based on a sample of 92 certified homes and comparable properties approved by a project appraiser. This investigative research effort also includes surveys and interviews with the builders of thirdparty certified homes and their residents.
 
The author discusses the inherent limitations of current valuation practices for homes with sustainable features. Finally, the report includes a synopsis of related research on the relationship between marketing initiatives and the sale price of third-party certified properties.   Click the pdf link to download and read this article.