Susan Van Liere of Pacific Union GMAC Real Estate
Becomes First Ecobroker® in Marin County

GREENBRAE, CALIF  --  Susan Van Liere of Pacific Union GMAC Real Estate is the first Marin County Realtor to earn an EcoBroker Certified® designation by completing a unique and informative training program on the energy and environmental issues that affect real estate transactions.

Van Liere, who works from the Pacific Union Central Marin office, joins the movement of professionals pushing the real estate market toward more homes and buildings designed with energy-efficient, sustainable and healthier features.

"With my EcoBroker training, I have increased my ability to problem solve and offer practical real estate solutions to my clients," Van Liere said. "Whether the transaction involves environmental assessment and mitigation—such as mold or radon—or the opportunity to reduce utility bills, I'm in much better a position to help clients.  The real estate industry is changing, and to best serve my clients I need to understand the newest designs, technologies, and environmental issues.  My EcoBroker designation helps me stay ahead of the game," she explained.

Van Liere received her certification from EcoBroker International, which educates licensed real-estate professionals about the impact of buildings on natural resources and the environment, and the value of reducing that impact. About 200 certified EcoBrokers operate in 25 states; Van Liere is the first Realtor from a Marin County brokerage and from Pacific Union to earn this designation.

With nine out of 10 homeowners surveyed by the National Association of Homebuilders saying they have at least some degree of concern about the environmental impact of building their home, and national surveys indicating that 80 percent of consumers consider themselves "green-minded," real estate professionals with the EcoBroker designation are in a better position to serve the real estate consumer.  "My goal is to be a resource for my clients and to assist with all of their home and real estate related concerns.  The priorities these days, right up there with keeping up with our ever changing local market data and trends, is a concern about creating healthy and energy efficient home environments. The EcoBroker allows me to better understand the issues and to help buyers and sellers become aware of advances and options in these areas." says Susan.

 "Susan Van Liere is an example of the quality real estate professional the EcoBroker designation continues to attract," said John Beldock, CEO of EcoBroker International. "These real estate professionals are not only distinguishing themselves in a competitive market place, but they are really giving back to the community in very constructive and meaningful ways. Marin needs more contributors like Susan. The planet and our grandchildren need them, too," he added.

More information about EcoBroker and its state-approved continuing education courses can be obtained by phone at (800) 706-4321 or online at www.ecobroker.com.