Real estate professionals care about the health and vitality of their communities. In a recent survey, the Real Estate Foundation of BC found that a solid majority (73%) of Realtors are interested in learning more about ways to incorporate sustainability and quality of life principles in their work.

In another survey, more than a third of Realtors said they actively give back to their communities by donating to community causes, volunteering for neighbourhood clean-ups, advising on energy efficient home upgrades, modelling sustainable business practices, and more.

Giving back makes good business sense: healthy communities are desirable places to live. By strengthening their commitment to quality of life, Realtors can attract like-minded clients, provide exceptional service, and counter negative perceptions about the industry.  

Over the last year, REFBC has partnered with Strandberg Consulting and Mustel Group to host focus groups, commission surveys, and conduct research to learn about Realtors’ attitudes on sustainability, quality of life, and professional development.

In our latest report, Beyond the Transaction, we’ve summarized our findings and proposed a business case for enhancing training and support for Realtors who are interested in sustainability and quality of life principles.

 

Download Beyond the Transaction

 

With input from Realtors and industry groups, we’ve compiled a list of suggestions for embedding sustainability and quality of life in real estate professional development, including:

• Developing a shared definition of sustainability that can be used by Realtors. This definition could incorporate the BC Real Estate Association’s “Quality of Life” principles.
• Collaborate with industry leaders on a competency model that incorporates knowledge and skills that contribute to community sustainability and quality of life.
• Highlight the successes of early adopters through case studies, pilot projects, and training sessions.

REFBC can help by funding research, supporting educational programs, and convening industry partners. Over the next several months, we’ll be meeting with real estate organizations to discuss the findings and collaborate on ways to move forward, together.

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Links:

• Report | Beyond the Transaction: Enhancing Professional Excellence in Real Estate
• Webinar | Beyond the Transaction (recorded May 16, 2019)