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Green Post - February

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 22:00:00 GMT

Latest News

Discount for Green
CA Summit

Build It Green Members: For a limited time, get 20% off your registration to the Green California Summit, the largest annual event focused on green policy, practice and technology. Get your discount code now.

Real Estate Training Endorsed by NAR

Our Certified Green Real Estate Professional (CG-REP) training was recently approved by the National Association of REALTORS for alternative program credit for NAR's Green Designation.

For a limited time, this 2-day course is being offered for only $50 in Santa Rosa. Check the event listing for details.

FREE event: Green Homes – Retrofitting vs. New Construction

Come hear Tenaya Asan, Senior Manager in our GreenPoint Rated department, speak on this panel during the dasHAUS event in San Francisco on Feb 23. The discussion is part of the day's larger topic "Propelling Green Building Concepts into Mainstream." Learn more.

Call for Construction Services

StopWaste.Org is requesting qualifications and quotes from the construction trades for maintenance of their residential properties in the Altamont hills, and other infrastructure owned or maintained by the Authority. Responses are due Feb 22, 2012. Download the RFQ.

February | 2012

Build It Green Programs Expand to Southern California

You've been asking for them, and we are pleased to announce that Green Building Professionals Guilds and Ask An Expert services will now be available to Southern California residents and building professionals.

This expansion reflects the growing demand for green building services throughout the state and we are happy to partner with Southern California Edison's Sustainable Communities Program to bring you these educational services and help you differentiate your homes, stay ahead of environmental regulations, and increase sales.

Green Building Professionals Guilds

These educational events feature cutting edge green building and energy efficiency topics presented by experts in their field. Every meeting provides opportunities to share experiences, contacts and lessons learned.

Our first meeting is coming up on March 28 in Irwindale and will address the role of water conservation in energy savings for Southern California residential construction.

More information and a schedule of upcoming topics

Ask an Expert

Need to know what insulation technique makes the most sense for your project, or how to avoid toxic compounds in your paint? It's as easy as making a phone call or sending an email. Build It Green's Ask an Expert service provides customized responses to green building questions for building professionals and the general public.

Ask an Expert services are now provided at no charge through Southern California Edison's Sustainable Communities Program for residents and green building professionals in the SCE territory.

Submit a question online or call 1-888-40-GREEN. Most inquiries are answered within two business days.

Feb 7, 2012 2:00 PM

Green Building Training Series | Only $100 With Scholarship

Luis Espinoza - noemail@builditgreen.org — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:00:00 GMT

Build It Green Programs Expand to Southern California

We are partnering with Southern California Edison's Sustainable Communities program to bring the following programs to residents and green building professionals.

Green Building Professionals Guilds

These educational events feature cutting edge green building topics presented by experts in their field. Every meeting provides opportunities to share experiences, contacts and lessons learned.

Click here for more information and a list of upcoming topics.

Ask an Expert

Need to know what insulation technique makes the most sense for your project? It's as easy as making a phone call or sending an email.

Submit a question online or call 1-888-40-GREEN.

February | 2012

GreenPoint Rated Training Series

Scholarships Available to Building Professionals Working in Los Angeles County. Full Series Only.
See registration page for details.

Recent surveys show that more and more homeowners want a green home. Green homes are healthier, save money on utilities and maintenance, and homes with green labels have even been shown to have higher property values.

And now that Energy Upgrade California in LA County is offering up to $2000 in rebates for a label and up to $8000 for energy upgrades, there has never been a better time for homeowners to make energy upgrades to their homes.

Our trainings will help you take advantage of the business opportunities created by this rebate program. You'll learn the basics of green building as well as more advanced building performance techniques and become qualified to help homeowners get a green label for their home. For as little as $100 (with scholarship) this series is an investment in your business you can't afford to pass up!

Learn more about this training series and apply for a scholarship today!

Certified Green Building Professional
March 20 – 21 | Downey
Our basic 2-day green building class that teaches a systems approach to the design, construction and operation of buildings.

GreenPoint Rated Core
March 22 – 24 | Downey
An introduction to the GreenPoint Rated system, covering basic procedures, program requirements, green building plan check review, and the differing responsibilities of Advisors and Raters

GreenPoint Rated Existing Home
March 26 – 27 | Downey
A rigorous course that uses examples of actual construction sites to teach you how to verify each of the GreenPoint Rated Existing Home system's measures. Learn to guide homeowners, design teams, and builders toward obtaining a GreenPoint Rated label, or become certified as a Rater and add rating services to your business offerings, including rating your own projects.

Please forward this invitation to anyone else who might be interested in attending this meeting.

Feb 2, 2012 6:00 PM

Free Webinar and Only $50 for a 2-Day Training

Luis Espinoza - noemail@builditgreen.org — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 23:00:00 GMT

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Take the Free Webinar First

Not sure whether the 2-day training is for you? Take this free webinar on Friday, Feb 3 for an introduction to green rebate and financing programs. Then, if you want to learn more, sign up for the course!

Register for the Webinar

Free Workshops for Homeowners

Tell your clients! Whether they're planning a major remodel, or just sprucing up a bathroom, this workshop outlines easy, cost-effective ways each design choice can contribute to a healthier and more resource efficient home.

These workshops are also a great opportunity to meet homeowners who want a green home.

Berkeley | February 2

San Francisco | February 4

Walnut Creek | February 11

Receive Green Designation Credit

The Certified Green Real Estate Professional training is approved by the National Association of REALTORS for alternative program credit for NAR's Green Designation.

This means that students who successfully complete our Certified Green Real Estate Professionals course will not be required to take Green 100: Real Estate for a Sustainable Future, which is the first day of NAR's Green Designation program.

February | 2012

Rebates Are Making Green Homes More Affordable than Ever
Help your clients save energy and get the best home value for their money.

Energy Upgrade California is now offering thousands of dollars in rebates to homeowners for energy efficiency and green home upgrades.

In Alameda County for example, homeowners can get up to $4,000 per home for energy upgrades and an extra $1000 for a GreenPoint Rated label. Learn more.

Our trainings teach you how these rebate programs work so you can help your clients make the most out of buying or selling a green home.

Certified Green Real Estate Professional Training
Feb 16 – 17 | Santa Rosa | Only $50* | Register Now

A comprehensive 2-day course that gives you the information you need to be your clients' go-to resource for energy efficiency rebates, green lending practices, and credible green building standards.

We'll show you how to take an affordable home and add green and energy efficiency upgrades that reduce utility and maintenance costs. Rebates, incentives and financing offset the cost of the initial upgrades, so your clients can get a better home for less!

You'll learn about California specific disclosure regulations, mortgage options and lending programs (203K, Energy Efficiency Mortgages).

With this certification, you'll also be listed in Build It Green’s directory of green professionals.

Lunch and light snacks will be provided.

*Regularly $450, this course is being offered for only $50 thanks to the generous support of Energy Upgrade California!

Please forward this invitation to anyone else who might be interested in attending this meeting.

Feb 1, 2012 3:00 PM

Free Workshops | Learn to Remodel Green

Newsletter Editor - noemail@builditgreen.org — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 22:00:00 GMT

RSVP for a Workshop Today

Burlingame
Feb 1 | 6:30 – 8pm | RSVP

Berkeley
Feb 2 | 5:30 – 7pm | RSVP

San Francisco
Feb 4 | 1 – 2:30pm | RSVP

Walnut Creek
Feb 11 | 10 – 11:30am | RSVP

Workshops
Hosted By:

February | 2012

Green Home Remodeling –
One Room at a Time

Join us for one of these FREE workshops, and get started on your green dream home with tips from GreenPoint Rated today!

Thinking about remodeling your kitchen or bathroom and want to make sure it’s friendly to the environment and your wallet? Join GreenPoint Rated for a one-hour free workshop and learn how to achieve a beautiful, healthy home while reducing your family’s carbon footprint!

GreenPoint Rated, the gold standard in green home certification, helps homeowners ensure their home meets high environmental standards. California already has over 10,000 GreenPoint Rated homes; together, they have saved more than 9,000 tons of greenhouse gases, the equivalent of taking over 1,500 cars off the road.

The Green Home Remodeling workshop will give you Green Pointers on everything from do-it-yourself basics to more extensive home improvements you can make with the help of a building professional.

Like a report card for green homes, GreenPoint Rated guides homeowners towards achieving the green home of their dreams through tips on how to:

Increase energy efficiency
Implement environmentally friendly construction techniques
Find home appliances that save water Create healthier indoor air quality by reducing chemicals, dust and mold
Protect forests and reduce landfill waste with sustainable building materials

For more information, visit GreenPointRated.com to get green remodel tips, see a photo gallery of GreenPoint Rated homes and explore an interactive green home.

Jan 31, 2012 2:00 PM

Rater E-news

Luis Espinoza - noemail@builditgreen.org — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 23:00:00 GMT

OTHER NEWS

Recent Publications by Build It Green Staff

Check out this article by Steve Mann, Project Manager at Build It Green, on Home Performance Scoring methods in the February edition of Home Energy Magazine. Read more.

Revised Energy Star Dishwasher Standards

The ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 specification for residential dishwashers was finalized on April 25, 2011 and will take effect on January 20, 2012. These new requirements allow a maximum energy use of 295 kWh/year and 4.25 gallons per cycle for standard models, and a maximum energy use of 222 kWh/year and 3.50 gallons of water per cycle for compact models. Lean more.

New Standard for Weather Resistant Barriers

An article in GreenSpec explains the new ASTM standard for weather resistant barriers with a handy chart summarizing the ASTM requirements. Read more.

Paper Towels or Hand Dryers?

A study shows that although hand dryers are more energy efficient than paper towels, they still use a great deal of energy and water. Learn more.

December GreenPoint Rated Results

Highest Score: 321

Number of Certified New Home Single Family Units: 193

Number of Certified New Home Multifamily Units: 302

Number of Certified Existing Home Single Family Units: 1

Number of Certified Existing Home Multifamily Units:0

Total Certified: 496

November GreenPoint Rated Results

Highest Score: 156

Number of Certified New Home Single Family Units: 88

Number of Certified New Home Multifamily Units:359

Number of Certified Existing Home Single Family Units:17

Number of Certified Existing Home Multifamily Units:0

Total Certified:464

Units Certified per Year

2012:259
2011:4181
2010:3095
2009: 1865
2008: 904
2007: 226

February | 2012

Rater Council Meeting

Tue, February 7| 3:30-5:00 PM | Register Now

Join us for the first Rater Council meeting of 2012. We'll review the CARB standards for composite wood products and discuss funding opportunities and changes in the ENERGY STAR program. We'll also show you how we're imporving the submittal process for the GreenPoint Rated New Home online tracking system.

As always, we will post the meeting as a video file and PDF for those of you who cannot attend on the 7th. See an archive of previous meetings.

Los Angeles Field Site Needed

Get a free training in exchange for access to a construction site! We are seeking a construction project to simulate a home rating under real conditions as part of the field exam for our upcoming GreenPoint Rated training.

The site must accommodate at least 40 people, and be available from 7am – 12pm on March 24. We will also need to make one site visit before the day of the exam. The ideal project would showcase home(s) in framing stage and home(s) in finish or completed stage. If you can help, please contact greenpointrated@builditgreen.org.

Program Revisions

Existing Home Single Family Data Collection Form Version 2.1.1 | Download for PC | Download for Mac

Build It Green Training Opportunities

Check the Build It Green calendar for training opportunities that will help you expand your business offerings. Some upcoming trainings are:

New Home training (SF)
Certified Green Real Estate Professional training (SF)
Certified Green Real Estate Professional training (Santa Rosa)
Existing Home training (LA)

Green Property
Management Training

StopWaste is hosting a training that prepares multifamily building operators and managers to make effective decisions to improve energy and environmental performance through building upgrades and ongoing operational practices. Register Now

Free Workshops for Homeowners

Tell your clients! Whether they're planning a major remodel, or just sprucing up a bathroom, this workshop will help them understand how each design choice can contribute to a healthier and more resource efficient home.

Burlingame | February 1
Berkeley | February 2
San Francisco | February 4
Walnut Creek | February 11

Ask an Expert Services Coming to Southern California

Through funding from Southern California Edison's Sustainable Communities Program, Ask An Expert is now available
at no charge for residents and green
building professionals in the SCE territory. Visit our website or call 1-888-40-GREEN. Most inquiries are answered within
two business days.

GreenPoint Rated Totals

	New Home		Existing Home		Total
	Multifamily	Single Family	Multifamily	Single Family
Certified	5479	5306	72	73	10930
Submitted	4512	7543	301	31	12387
Total Units	9991	12849	373	104	23317

Jan 26, 2012 3:00 PM

Free Workshops | Learn to Remodel Green

Luis Espinoza - noemail@builditgreen.org — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 21:00:00 GMT

Merge your dreams with your ideals - you can have the best of both worlds.

Visit GreenPointRated.com to learn how you can achieve a healthy and beautiful home, while also lowering costs and saving resources for the next generation.

The benefits section offers an introduction to the health, economic and environmental benefits of each of the five GreenPoint Rated categories.

Case studies showcase beautiful homes, taking you through the remodel process step by step.

The interactive green house lets you explore the ins and outs of a green home.

Workshops
Hosted By:

February | 2012

Green Home Remodeling –
One Room at a Time

Join us for one of these FREE homeowner workshops, and get started on your green dream home with tips from GreenPoint Rated today!

Whatever your reasons for remodeling, it makes good sense to use a green approach.

The rewards of green remodeling are tangible. You’ll reduce your energy and water bills, save on materials and maintenance costs, improve the comfort of your home, and eliminate harmful toxins.

Whether you're planning a major remodel, or just sprucing up a bathroom, every change you make to your home is an opportunity to help the environment and improve your family's health.

This 1-hour workshop will take you from basic improvements you can do yourself to more extensive changes that you can make with a building professional's help. You'll learn how each room in your house can benefit from easy, cost-effective fixes and get answers to some of the most common questions about green remodels, including:

Where do I start?
Will it cost more?
If it’s green, will it still look good?
Will it really save me money in the long run?

Let our knowledgeable staff show you how to approach each of your design choices so you can achieve a beautiful, healthy home that conserves resources for future generations.

Jan 24, 2012 1:00 PM

Guilds & Other Events - Jan/Feb

Luis Espinoza - noemail@builditgreen.org — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 23:00:00 GMT

OTHER NEWS AND EVENTS

Tell your clients! Whether they're planning a major remodel, or just sprucing up a bathroom, this workshop will help them understand how each design choice can contribute to a healthier and more resource efficient home.

Burlingame | February 1

Berkeley | February 2

San Francisco | February 4

Walnut Creek | February 11

Volunteer Opportunities Attend a Guild Meeting
for Free
Receive complimentary admission in exchange for helping with meeting setup & breakdown. Contact Guild@BuildItGreen.org

Attend a Professional Training for Free
Receive full admission in exchange for helping out at an event or our Oakland office. Volunteer 40 hours for a 2-day training. Contact Volunteer@BuildItGreen.org or apply online.

Explore our events calendar for other trainings and workshops in your area!

Jan/Feb | 2012

Green Building Professionals Guilds

Building Your Business with GreenPoint Rated: It's Easy Being Green!
2/1| 5:30 pm – 8 pm | East Bay | Register Now

Homeowners are getting savvier about the health and cost benefits of a green home. Learn how to leverage opportunities through GreenPoint Rated and Energy Upgrade California to engage clients and build your business. Receive free, customizable marketing materials and network with other real estate and building industry professionals.

Managing a Business During Challenging Times
2/7 | 5 pm – 7 pm | South Bay | Register Now

Do you believe there are more customers out there, if only you could reach them? Maureen Ladley of Ladley & Associates will show you no- and low-cost marketing tactics any small business can do to increase business, even in today’s economy. Then Kevin Casey of New Avenue Homes, a successful business he launched just 3 years ago in the midst of the economic downturn, will show you how he’s not just surviving, but thriving by offering a super green product that adapts to the needs of today’s consumer.

Hands On LED
2/8 | 5 pm – 7 pm | North Bay | Register Now

We'll discuss today's best LED products, show you how they work, and what the necessary components are. Terry Nordbye of "The Practical House" will cover benefits and pitfalls of using LEDs, and what is being done to improve them. .

Zero Water
2/15 | 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm | San Francisco | Register Now

As we face increased limitations and restrictions on the availability of water for project needs, integrated water resources are becoming more and more necessary. We’ll take a look at low impact development (LID) responses to watershed placement and runoff, retention to reduce irrigation requirements, and the use of graywater and subsurface irrigation systems.

With an eye to the future, we’ll also talk about recycled water and the use of other non-potable water sources, and the design and installation of hierarchies of water sources to minimize use of potable sources. Full applications can even approach Zero Net Water on some sites. On the practical side, we’ll address specific technical equipment and meeting filtration, pressure and flow requirements with integrated design techniques.

Webinars

Webinars are FREE for Build It Green Members

Fired Up about Green Building:
The Latest on Flame Retardants
2/29 | 11 am – 12:30 pm | Register Now

In 2004, Environmental Building News alerted the building community to the health and environmental concerns of Halogenated Flame Retardants. While some of these chemicals have been phased out, many are still in production and used widely in furniture and building products.

We'll review the science, take a look at current use of these chemicals in building products, and discuss alternative products and construction details that do not rely on Halogenated Flame Retardants.

This webinar qualifies for 1.5 CEUs toward your Build It Green recertification requirements.

Build It Green Members also have FREE access to our exclusive online Webinar Library, a database of past webinars. Not yet a member? Explore benefits and join today!

Please forward this invitation to anyone else who might be interested in attending this meeting.

Jan 19, 2012 3:00 PM

New Programs Coming to Southern California

Luis Espinoza - noemail@builditgreen.org — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 23:00:00 GMT

OTHER NEWS AND EVENTS

Green Building Professionals Guilds Coming to Southern California

After gaining strong momentum in the San Francisco Bay Area, the Green Building Professionals Guilds are coming to Southern California!

These educational events feature cutting edge green building and energy efficiency topics presented by experts in their field. Every meeting provides opportunities to share experiences, contacts and lessons learned.

Southern California Edison residents and green building professionals who work in the territory are eligible to attend. Look for announcements coming soon.

Questions? Contact Michelle Noriega at Build It Green Los Angeles.

Technical Resources and Fact Sheets

We're also enhancing our technical resources library. New technical fact sheets on green building topics will soon be available to all Sustainable Community Program participants.

Expect the same quality of trusted information that Build It Green is known for applied to new topics and technologies. Access the current library now!

About Build It Green

Build It Green is a membership supported non-profit organization whose mission is to promote healthy, energy and resource-efficient homes in California.

Build It Green Members receive discounts on green building trainings increased visibility for their businesses. Learn more about becoming a Member.

January | 2012

Build It Green is pleased to announce that we are partnering with Southern California Edison's (SCE) Sustainable Communities Program (SCP).

The Sustainable Communities Program (SCP) is an innovative pilot program designed to encourage the construction of zero net energy buildings and sustainable, low to zero-net energy communities.

The program's energy and sustainability experts provide free, customized design assistance to help you maximize energy savings, prioritize on-site energy generation, and specify sustainability goals throughout each phase of your project.

Assistance is available for individual zero-net energy buildings, master planned communities, mixed-use and residential development projects, and includes design charrettes, energy benchmarking and modeling, and much more.

In addition to free technical assistance, participating in this program will help you stay ahead of environmental regulations, differentiate your homes and increase sales. The National Association of Realtors 2010 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, for example, has found that 88% of surveyed home buyers are interested in environmentally friendly features.

Even if you aren't officially participating in the pilot project, you can still benefit from our educational services by attending a Green Building Professional Guild meeting (see sidebar)

If you'd like to receive design assistance, please visit the Program Details page (www.sce-scp.com) or contact SCP at: (800) 331-8786 or info@SCE-scp.com.

Featured Service:
The Ask an Expert Hotline

Need to know what insulation technique makes the most sense for your project? It's as easy as making a phone call or sending an email. Build It Green's Ask an Expert service provides customized responses to green building questions for building professionals and the general public. Our experts can answer a range of questions such as:

Which paint and furniture should parents choose to make sure a child's bedroom is healthy?
What should a builder look for in windows to help reduce energy bills?
Does it cost more money to use healthy home and building products?
Can I recycle old asphalt shingles?

Ask An Expert is a service provided to you at no charge through Southern California Edison's Sustainable Communities Program for residents and green building professionals in the SCE territory.

Visit our website at www.builditgreen.org/ask-expert/ or call 1-888-40-GREEN. Most inquiries are answered within two business days.

This program is funded by California utility ratepayers and administered by Southern California Edison Company under the auspices of the California Public Utilities Commission, through a contract awarded to Build It Green. California customers who choose to participate in this program are not obligated to purchase any additional services offered by the contractor. The trademarks used herein are the property of their respective owners.

Please forward this invitation to anyone else who might be interested in attending this meeting.

Jan 19, 2012 3:00 PM

2-Day Training For Only $50 | Help Clients Save!

Luis Espinoza - noemail@builditgreen.org — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 22:00:00 GMT

Free Workshops for Homeowners

Tell your clients! Whether they're planning a major remodel, or just sprucing up a bathroom, this workshop outlines easy, cost-effective ways each design choice can contribute to a healthier and more resource efficient home.

Burlingame | February 1

Berkeley | February 2

San Francisco | February 4

Walnut Creek | February 11

January | 2012

Rebates Are Making Green Homes More Affordable than Ever
Help your clients save energy and get the best home value for their money.

Energy Upgrade California is now offering thousands of dollars in rebates to homeowners for energy efficiency and green home upgrades.

In Alameda County for example, homeowners can get up to $4,000 per home for energy upgrades and an extra $1000 for a GreenPoint Rated label. Learn more.

Our trainings teach you how these rebate programs work so you can help your clients make the most out of buying or selling a green home.

Certified Green Real Estate Professional Training
Feb 1 - 2 | San Francisco | Only $50* | Register Now
Feb 16 – 17 | Santa Rosa | Only $50* | Register Now

A comprehensive 2-day course that gives you the information you need to be your clients' go-to resource for energy efficiency rebates, green lending practices, and credible green building standards.

We'll show you how to take an affordable home and add green and energy efficiency upgrades that reduce utility and maintenance costs. Rebates, incentives and financing offset the cost of the initial upgrades, so your clients can get a better home for less!

You'll learn about California specific disclosure regulations, mortgage options and lending programs (203K, Energy Efficiency Mortgages).

With this certification, you'll also be listed in Build It Green’s directory of green professionals.

Lunch and light snacks will be provided.

*Regularly $450, this course is being offered for only $50 thanks to the generous support of Energy Upgrade California!

Please forward this invitation to anyone else who might be interested in attending this meeting.

Jan 18, 2012 2:00 PM

Green Post - January

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 02:00:00 GMT

Latest News

FREE Workshops for Homeowners

Whether you're planning a major remodel, or just sprucing up a bathroom, this workshop will show you easy, cost-effective things you can do yourself to make it green. These will fill up fast, so RSVP today!

Burlingame | February 1

Berkeley | February 2

San Francisco | February 4

Walnut Creek | February 11

Get Green Home Tips on Facebook

Like GreenPoint Rated now and start learning how to green your home today!

Deepening Our Southern CA Impact with New Board Members

Three green building leaders joined the Build It Green board to better serve the demand for residential green building services statewide. Former board member Chandra Krout transitioned to staff as Director of Programs & Contract Administration. Read more about these talented and accomplished people

January | 2012

GreenPoint Rated Rebate Increased to $2,000 in LA County

The Energy Upgrade California program in Los Angeles County has doubled the rebate amounts for getting a GreenPoint Rated label. Rebates are now $1,000 for an Elements label and $2,000 for a Whole House label, making it easier than
ever to get a home GreenPoint Rated. Learn More.

(Rebate amounts in Alameda County are $1,000 for an Elements label and $1,000 for a Whole House label.
Learn More.)

Studies are showing that homes with green labels retain their value better and sell faster than conventional homes. Plus the label offers homeowners peace of mind that their home or remodel really is green – a healthier, more comfortable, and more resource efficient space for them and their families.

Rebate programs provide a down payment on GreenPoint Rated and other energy upgrades

The GreenPoint Rated rebates offset the cost of the actual label, but there are also rebates that can help pay for the upgrades a home may need in order to qualify for a label. Los Angeles County for example offers up to $8,000 in rebates for energy efficiency upgrades. Learn More.

Make sure to tell your clients how easy getting

the green label can be

When a homeowner does an Advanced Package energy upgrade through Energy Upgrade California, they can earn 20 out of the 25 minimum points needed for the GreenPoint Rated label. The rest of the points can be easily achieved by implementing a few of these simple measures.

Jan 12, 2012 6:00 PM

Help Your Clients Find Rebates and Financing

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 19:00:00 GMT

Case Studies Show Rebates
in Action

See first-hand examples of how rebates help off-set the initial cost of green home improvements for Southern California families.

Use these case studies to show your clients how they can improve their home's comfort, and ultimately make their home more valuable.

The Kelley home in LaVerne
The Bryan Home in Pomona
The Brown Home in
Los Angeles

Receive Green Designation Credit

We are pleased to announce that this training was recently approved by the National Association of REALTORS for alternative program credit for NAR's Green Designation.

This means that students who successfully complete our Certified Green Real Estate Professionals course will not be required to take Green 100: Real Estate for a Sustainable Future, which is the first day of NAR's Green Designation program.

January | 2012

Financing Options Help Clients Make Energy Saving Upgrades

Do you know how to help your clients make the most of available financing?

A number of financing programs are providing funds for energy and green upgrades, helping new homeowners make remarkable improvements in the comfort of their homes and in their energy bills.

Did you know for example, that an FHA Energy Efficiency Mortgage can significantly lower the cost of homeownership by providing up to 5% of the home's appraised value for energy efficiency improvements that lower utility bills?

Find out about the many options currently available, and learn how they work so you can help your clients make the most out of buying or selling a green home.

Certified Green Real Estate Professional Training
Feb 1 – 2 | San Francisco | Only $50* | Register Now
Feb 16 – 17 | Santa Rosa | Only $50* | Register Now

A comprehensive 2-day course that gives you the information you need to be your clients' go-to resource for energy efficiency rebates, green lending practices, and credible green building standards.

We'll show you how to take an affordable home and add green and energy efficiency upgrades that reduce utility and maintenance costs. Rebates, incentives and financing offset the cost of the initial upgrades, so your clients can get a better home for less!

You'll learn about California specific disclosure regulations, mortgage options and lending programs (203K, Energy Efficiency Mortgages).

With this certification, you'll also be listed in Build It Green’s directory of green professionals.

Lunch and light snacks will be provided.

*Regularly $450, this course is being offered for only $50 thanks to the generous support of Energy Upgrade California!

Please forward this invitation to anyone else who might be interested in attending this meeting.

Jan 4, 2012 11:00 AM

Help Your Clients Find Rebates and Financing

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 19:00:00 GMT

Case Studies Show Rebates
in Action

January | 2012

Financing Options Help Clients
Make Energy Saving Upgrades

Certified Green Real Estate Professional Training
Jan 17 - 18 | San Diego | Only $50* | Register Now

A comprehensive 2-day course that gives you the information you need to be your clients' go-to resource for energy efficiency rebates, green lending practices, and credible green building standards.

We'll show you how to take an affordable home and add green and energy efficiency upgrades that reduce utility and maintenance costs. Rebates, incentives and financing offset the cost of the initial upgrades, so your clients can get a better home for less!

You'll learn about California specific disclosure regulations, mortgage options and lending programs (203K, Energy Efficiency Mortgages).

With this certification, you'll also be listed in Build It Green’s directory of green professionals.

Lunch and light snacks will be provided.

*Regularly $450, this course is being offered for only $50 thanks to the generous support of Energy Upgrade California!

Please forward this invitation to anyone else who might be interested in attending this meeting.

Jan 4, 2012 11:00 AM

Free Workshops | Learn to Remodel Green

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 22:00:00 GMT

Merge your dreams with your ideals - you can have the best of both worlds.

Visit GreenPointRated.com to learn how you can achieve a healthy and beautiful home, while also lowering costs and saving resources for the next generation.

The benefits section offers an introduction to the health, economic and environmental benefits of each of the five GreenPoint Rated categories.

Case studies showcase beautiful homes, taking you through the remodel process step by step.

The interactive green house lets you explore the ins and outs of a green home.

December | 2011

Green Home Remodeling –
One Room at a Time

A free workshop for homeowners. Get started on your green dream home today!

Whatever your reasons for remodeling, it makes good sense to use a green approach.

The rewards of green remodeling are tangible. You’ll reduce your energy and water bills, save on materials and maint-
enance costs, improve the comfort of your home, and eliminate harmful toxins.

Whether you’re planning a major remodel, or just sprucing up a bathroom, every change you make to your home is an opportunity to use fewer resources and improve your family’s health.

This 1-hour workshop will take you from basic improvements you can do yourself to more extensive changes that you can do with a building professional’s help. You’ll learn how each room in your house can benefit from easy, cost-effective fixes and get answers to some of the most common questions about green remodels, including:

Where do I start?
Will it cost more?
If it’s green, will it still look good?
Will it really save me money in the long run?

Let our knowledgeable staff show you how to approach each of your design choices so you really can achieve your dream home – a beautiful, healthy home that conserves resources for future generations.

Workshop Dates & Times

Feb 2, 2012 | 5:30 – 7pm | Truitt & White in Berkeley |
Register Now

Feb 4, 2012 | 1 – 2:30pm | Green Depot in San Francisco | Register Now

South Bay, North Bay and Walnut Creek dates coming soon. Stay tuned for details.

Dec 21, 2011 2:00 PM

Green Post - December

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 22:00:00 GMT

Latest News

Announcing the Winner of our Membership Raffle!

Maureen Ladley of Ladley and Associates won a one-year Build It Green membership for filling out our membership survey. Congratulations Maureen!

Build It Green Members receive benefits like training discounts and increased business visibility. And there's much more in store for our members in 2012.

Become a member today and support our work to promote greener, healthier homes across the state!

Got a Green Building Question?

Whether you're wondering what kind of insulation to use, or how to choose the right water heater, you can contact our Ask an Expert Hotline for free customized answers to all your green building questions.

This service is currently only for PG&E customers, but will soon be available in other parts of California as well. Stay tuned for details!

Coming Soon: Workshops for Homeowners!

Early next year, we'll be hosting FREE green home workshops for homeowners in four cities around the San Francisco Bay Area. Whether you're planning a major remodel, or just sprucing up a bathroom, come to one of these workshops to find out how to make it green.

Our experienced staff will show you easy, cost-effective things you can do yourself. Stay tuned for dates and locations, and check our online calendar for updates.

December | 2011

Celebrating 10,000
GreenPoint Rated Homes

What a great year it's been! As 2011 comes to a close, we celebrate surpassing a major milestone: 10,000 homes with a GreenPoint Rated label.

These GreenPoint Rated homes are saving California over 122 million gallons of water — enough to fill Crystal Springs Reservoir more than 6 times over — and avoiding over 48,000 tons of greenhouse gases, the equivalent of taking over 8,500 cars off the road for a year.

Check out the press release at SFGate!

We also launched GreenPointRated.com, a brand new website designed especially for homeowners. The site features an interactive green home, case studies, and GreenPoint Rated rebate information, to educate consumers and stimulate demand for green homes.

And we launched our Certified Green Real Estate Professional training to teach the real estate community about the value of the GreenPoint Rated label and green, energy efficient homes. Drawing over 175 attendees, these trainings are helping real estate professionals leverage the growing market demand for homes with green labels.

Thank you to all of you who helped us achieve this momentous accomplishment! We could not have gotten this far without the many building professionals and GreenPoint Raters dedicated to building healthier, more energy and resource efficient homes.

-- The Build It Green Team

In the News: The Year's Top Stories

GreenPoint Rated homes of all kinds received media coverage over the past year. Here is a selection of stories from 2011 showcasing the wide variety of healthy, comfortable, efficient, and beautiful GreenPoint Rated homes.

	KTVU features this custom whole-house remodel in Albany for both its beauty and its energy efficiency. Read more. GreenPoint Rated Existing Home score: 231
	A luxurious Los Angeles house garners attention for its greywater system, the first to be permitted in the region. Read more. GreenPoint Rated New Home score: 149
	An affordable housing development in San Francisco lowers the cost of living for its residents. Read more. GreenPoint Rated New Home score: 149
	A KB Homes community in Petaluma bucks the local trend of low home sales. Read more. GreenPoint Rated New Home score: 111

Dec 19, 2011 2:00 PM

Guild Meetings - January 2012

Newsletter Editor - noemail@builditgreen.org — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

OTHER NEWS
AND EVENTS

Explore our events calendar for other trainings and workshops in your area!

Dec/Jan | 2011

Green Building Professionals Guilds

Successful Business Models for Green Building
1/11 | 5 pm – 7 pm | North Bay | Register Now

Wondering what others in the construction and real estate industries are doing to help their businesses excel in these rough times? We'll provide samples of alternative business models and and show you how some companies have adapted to today’s market by changing their vision.

A panel of six business leaders from various industries (product supplier, architect, construction, manufacturing, consulting, and trades) will share their insights and compare business models pre and post 2008.

Incorporating Home Performance Into Your Remodeling Business
1/18| 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm | San Francisco | Register Now

The sluggish economy continues to punch remodeling contractors in the gut. Come hear how a few savvy contractors are reviving their business by incorporating home performance improvements into their services.

Speakers will discuss the opportunities and challenges of the home performance business model, whether it's right for you, and how to take the next steps. Potential opportunities include selling additional improvements to prior clients and selling small jobs that lead to bigger ones.

Representatives from Energy Upgrade California will be on hand to discuss how you can leverage available rebates to sell more jobs.

South Bay and East Bay Guild meetings resume February 2012

Dec 15, 2011 4:00 PM

Become a Green Resource | Only $50 for a 2-Day Training

Newsletter Editor - noemail@builditgreen.org — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 21:00:00 GMT

Demand for Green Homes on the Rise

The LA Times recently reported that homes with a green certification command a higher price premium and spend less time on the market than homes without a certification.
Read the article.

NAR’s 2010 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers found that 88% of surveyed home buyers were interested in environmentally friendly features. Read the report.

A recent study in Los Angeles showed that when rebates are available, over 50% of homeowners are interested in green upgrades.
Read the study.

And now, Energy Upgrade California is offering up to $8000 in energy upgrade rebates and up to $2000 in green label rebates to homeowners in certain counties.

This unprecedented cash back rebate makes green home upgrades more affordable than ever. And real estate agents can get a $200 referral fee for any project they refer that results in a green label.

Learn more at EnergyUpgradeCA.org.

December | 2011

Are You Prepared to Help Your Clients Buy a Green Home?

Learn everything you need to know to help your clients understand green features, make cost-saving decisions, and navigate statewide rebate programs.

Our courses focus specifically on existing homes in the California marketplace, and complement other national green real estate trainings.

Certified Green Real Estate Professional Training
Jan 17 - 18 | San Diego | Only $50* | Register Now

A comprehensive 2-day course that gives you the information you need to be your clients’ go-to resource for energy efficiency rebates, green lending practices, and credible green building standards.

We’ll show you how to take an affordable home and add green and energy efficiency upgrades that reduce utility and maintenance costs. Rebates, incentives and financing offset the cost of the initial upgrades, so your clients can get a better home for less!

You'll learn about California specific disclosure regulations, mortgage options and lending programs (203K, Energy Efficiency Mortgages).

You’ll also be listed in Build It Green’s directory of green professionals, which receives over 2,500 searches per month.

Lunch and light snacks will be provided.

*Regularly $450, this course is being offered for only $50 thanks to the generous support of Energy Upgrade California!

Please forward this invitation to anyone else who might be interested in attending this meeting.

Dec 14, 2011 1:00 PM

GreenPoint Rated December eNews

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

OTHER NEWS

GreenPoint Rated Home on KTVU.com

Architect and homeowner, Ian MacLeod, talks about his whole-house remodel in Albany, which was GreenPoint Rated by Russell Bayba. The video also features Build It Green staff member Tenaya Asan.

Value of Green Homes Gains Traction

Recent changes in the appraisal process may benefit green certified projects, reports the LA Times.

Proposed legislation would help make it easier to assess the value of green homes, as summarized in Green Building Advisor.

A Lawrence Berkeley National Lab study reviews the existing literature on whether green homes sell faster and for more money, as summarized in Home Energy Magazine.

Does Mercury in CFL's Pose a Serious Risk?

An article in Home Energy Magazine suggests the risks are minimal and pose less of a threat to our health than the mercury released by coal-fired plants used to produce electricity to power those bulbs.

October GreenPoint Rated Results

Highest Score: 195

Number of Certified New Home Single Family Units: 185

Number of Certified New Home Multifamily Units:113

Number of Certified Existing Home Single Family Units: 6

Number of Certified Existing Home Multifamily Units:0

Total Certified:304

November GreenPoint Rated Results

Highest Score: 156

Number of Certified New Home Single Family Units:88

Number of Certified New Home Multifamily Units:359

Number of Certified Existing Home Single Family Units:17

Number of Certified Existing Home Multifamily Units:0

Total Certified:464

Units Certified per Year

2011:3725
2010: 3095
2009: 1865
2008: 904
2007: 226

December | 2011

Rater Council Meeting

Tue, December 13| 3:30-5:00 PM | Register Now

We'll be providing updates on using logos for projects in progress, a review of the Quality Assurance Review process, a review of 2011 accomplishments and a presentation on the Climate Calculator. We will also be taking your topic suggestions and general feedback for the 2012 Rater Council calendar. As always, we will post the meeting as a video file and PDF for those of you who cannot attend on the 13th. See an archive of previous meetings.

Announcing a Major Milestone: 10,000 GreenPoint Rated Homes!

If you were at our holiday celebration last week, then you already know that as of the end of November, 10,000 single and multifamily homes have received the GreenPoint Rated label. These GreenPoint Rated homes are saving California over 122 million gallons of water — enough to fill 185 Olympic-sized Swimming Pools — and avoiding over 48,000 tons of greenhouse gases, the equivalent of taking over 8,500 cars off the road for a year.

A huge Thank You to all of you who helped us achieve this momentous accomplishment!

Program Revisions

New Home Single Family Rating Manual Version 4.2.1
Download Now

Revision applies to manual only. Data Collection Form and Checklist remain at version 4.2.

Program, Policy and Procedures Handbook Version 5.2
Download Now

Major revisions include changes in the logo use agreement process and quality assurance policies.

New Resources

New Logo for Projects in Progress
Download Now

For a $20 processing fee, builders or raters may now access a logo for projects that have been submitted to Build It Green, but are not yet certified. And coming soon: GreenPoint Rated Lawn signs!

ASHRAE 62.2 Resource for Contractors
Download Now

Raters: visit the New Home Rater Tools pages for a summary of ASHRAE 62.2 requirements by Judy Roberson and share it with your contractors.

Build It Green Training Opportunities

Check the Build It Green calendar for training opportunities that will help you expand your business offerings. Some upcoming trainings are:

Existing HomeMultifamily training (Bay Area)
New Home training (Bay Area)
Certified Green Real Estate Professional training (San Diego)
Certified Green Real Estate Professional training (Bay Area)

GreenPoint Rated Totals

	New Home		Existing Home		Total
	Multifamily	Single Family	Multifamily	Single Family
Certified	5,062	5,013	72	68	10,215
Submitted	4,752	7,725	301	35	12,813
Total Units	9,814	12,738	373	103	23,028

Dec 8, 2011 4:00 PM

Become a Green Resource | Only $50 for a 2-Day Training

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 20:00:00 GMT

Demand for Green Homes on the Rise

The LA Times recently reported that homes with a green certification command a higher price premium and spend less time on the market than homes without a certification.
Read the article.

NAR’s 2010 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers found that 88% of surveyed home buyers were interested in environmentally friendly features. Read the report.

A recent study in Los Angeles showed that when rebates are available, over 50% of homeowners are interested in green upgrades.
Read the study.

And now, Energy Upgrade California is offering up to $8000 in energy upgrade rebates and up to $1000 in green label rebates to homeowners in certain counties.

This unprecedented cash back rebate makes green home upgrades more affordable than ever. And real estate agents can get a $200 referral fee for any project they refer that results in a green label.

Learn more at EnergyUpgradeCA.org.

November | 2011

Are You Prepared to Help Your Clients Buy a Green Home?

Certified Green Real Estate Professional Training
Jan 17 - 18 | San Diego | Only $50* | Register Now

A comprehensive 2-day course that gives you the information you need to be your clients’ go-to resource for energy efficiency rebates, green lending practices, and credible green building standards.

We’ll show you how to take an affordable home and add green and energy efficiency upgrades that reduce utility and maintenance costs. Rebates, incentives and financing offset the cost of the initial upgrades, so your clients can get a better home for less!

You'll learn about California specific disclosure regulations, mortgage options and lending programs (203K, Energy Efficiency Mortgages).

You’ll also be listed in Build It Green’s directory of green professionals, which receives over 2,500 searches per month.

Lunch and light snacks will be provided.

*Regularly $450, this course is being offered for only $50 thanks to the generous support of Energy Upgrade California!

Please forward this invitation to anyone else who might be interested in attending this meeting.

Dec 2, 2011 12:00 PM

Guild Meetings - December 2011

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 19:30:00 GMT

OTHER NEWS
AND EVENTS

Volunteer Opportunities

Attend a Guild Meeting
for Free
Receive complimentary admission in exchange for helping with meeting setup & breakdown. Contact Guild@BuildItGreen.org

Attend a Professional Training for Free
Receive full admission in exchange for helping out at an event or our Oakland office. Volunteer 40 hours for a 2-day training. Contact Volunteer@BuildItGreen.org or apply online.

Explore our events calendar for other trainings and workshops in your area!

December | 2011

Green Building Professionals Guilds

Green Materials Framing: Structural Insulated Panels (SIPS) and Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFS)
12/6 | 5 pm – 7 pm | South Bay | Register Now

Most of us have heard of these products before, but haven’t started using them on a daily basis. Gary Radzat of Shell Building Systems and Lee Morton of Morton Construction will talk about the time, cost and environmental benefits of these systems, what architectural styles they work best with, and how they might change site details. Let’s see if we can’t get you excited about trying a new product!

The Other Solar - Hot Water for Domestic
and Space Heating
12/7| 5:30 pm – 8 pm | East Bay | Register Now

Overshadowed by its younger cousin, solar electric (PV), it's time for solar hot water to make a comeback! In this presentation, we’ll talk about how solar hot water can significantly reduce energy use. A panel with decades of solar experience will cover the pros & cons of different system types, collector options, freeze & overheating strategies (glycol vs. water), plumbing, controls, tanks, backup heating, heat pumps, space heating, Federal Tax Credits, the CSI Solar Thermal Rebates, net zero energy homes, and Passive House and GreenPoint Rated Credits.

North Bay and San Francisco Guild meetings moved to January 2012

Successful Building Models for
Green Building (Panel)
1/11/2012| 5 pm – 7 pm | North Bay | Register Now

Using Energy Upgrade California (EUC) in
Your Remodel
1/18/2012| 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm | San Francisco | Register Now

Webinars

Webinars are FREE for Build It Green Members

LED Product Demonstration
12/14 | 11 pm – 12:30 pm | Register Now

We’ll explain the basics of how LEDs work, highlighting the latest recessed, pendant and linear LED products, and talk about questions to ask when shopping for LEDs.

This webinar qualifies for 1.5 CEUs toward your Build It Green recertification requirements.

Build It Green Members also have FREE access to our exclusive online Webinar Library, a database of past webinars. Not yet a member? Explore benefits and join today!

Dec 2, 2011 11:30 AM

Last Chance to Register. Don’t Miss this Opportunity!

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 02:00:00 GMT

Do you know how to help your clients make the most of available financing?

Financing programs are providing funds for energy and green upgrades, helping new homeowners make remarkable improvements in the comfort of their homes and in their energy bills.

Did you know for example, that an FHA Energy Efficiency Mortgage can significantly lower the cost of homeownership by providing up to 5% of the home’s appraised value for energy efficiency improvements that lower utility bills?

In this training you’ll find out about the many options currently available, and learn how they work so you can help your clients make the most out of buying or selling a green home.

November | 2011

Last Chance to Register. Don’t Miss this Opportunity!

Certified Green Real Estate Professional Training
Dec 5 - 6 | Downey | Only $50 with Scholarship*
Register Now

This training starts Monday, so if you’ve been thinking about signing up, do it now!

Regularly priced at $450, funding from Energy Upgrade California in Los Angeles County is allowing us to offer this 2-day training for only $50. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how to assist your clients with green home options, and build your business. Once the funds run out, the trainings will go back to full price.

Registration closes at 10am on Friday, Dec 2nd.

Course Description

A comprehensive 2-day course that gives you the information you need to be your clients’ go-to resource for energy efficiency rebates, green lending practices, and credible green building standards.

We’ll show you how to take an affordable home and add green and energy efficiency upgrades that reduce utility and maintenance costs. Rebates, incentives and financing offset the cost of the initial upgrades, so your clients can get a better home for less!

You'll learn about California specific disclosure regulations, mortgage options and lending programs (203K, Energy Efficiency Mortgages).

With this certification, you’ll also be listed in Build It Green’s directory of green professionals.

*Scholarships are available for real estate professionals in Los Angeles County. Regular price is $400 for Build It Green members, $450 for non-members. See registration page for details.

Please forward this invitation to anyone else who might be interested in attending this meeting.

Nov 30, 2011 6:00 PM

Build It Green Articles RSS Feed

Green Post - February

February | 2012

Green Building Training Series | Only $100 With Scholarship

February | 2012

GreenPoint Rated Training Series

Free Webinar and Only $50 for a 2-Day Training

February | 2012

Free Workshops | Learn to Remodel Green

February | 2012

Green Home Remodeling – One Room at a Time

Rater E-news

February | 2012

Rater Council Meeting

Los Angeles Field Site Needed

Program Revisions

Build It Green Training Opportunities

Green Property Management Training

Free Workshops for Homeowners

Ask an Expert Services Coming to Southern California

GreenPoint Rated Totals

Free Workshops | Learn to Remodel Green

February | 2012

Green Home Remodeling – One Room at a Time

Guilds & Other Events - Jan/Feb

Jan/Feb | 2012

Webinars

New Programs Coming to Southern California

January | 2012

Featured Service: The Ask an Expert Hotline

2-Day Training For Only $50 | Help Clients Save!

January | 2012

Green Post - January

January | 2012

Help Your Clients Find Rebates and Financing

January | 2012

Financing Options Help Clients Make Energy Saving Upgrades

Help Your Clients Find Rebates and Financing

January | 2012

Financing Options Help Clients Make Energy Saving Upgrades

Free Workshops | Learn to Remodel Green

December | 2011

Green Home Remodeling – One Room at a Time

Green Post - December

December | 2011

Guild Meetings - January 2012

Dec/Jan | 2011

Green Building Professionals Guilds

Become a Green Resource | Only $50 for a 2-Day Training

December | 2011

Are You Prepared to Help Your Clients Buy a Green Home?

GreenPoint Rated December eNews

December | 2011

Rater Council Meeting

Announcing a Major Milestone: 10,000 GreenPoint Rated Homes!

Program Revisions

New Resources

Build It Green Training Opportunities

GreenPoint Rated Totals

Become a Green Resource | Only $50 for a 2-Day Training

November | 2011

Are You Prepared to Help Your Clients Buy a Green Home?

Guild Meetings - December 2011

December | 2011

Green Building Professionals Guilds

Webinars

Last Chance to Register. Don’t Miss this Opportunity!

November | 2011

Last Chance to Register. Don’t Miss this Opportunity!

Green Home Remodeling –
One Room at a Time

Green Property
Management Training

Green Home Remodeling –
One Room at a Time

Featured Service:
The Ask an Expert Hotline

Financing Options Help Clients
Make Energy Saving Upgrades

Green Home Remodeling –
One Room at a Time