District Home Magazine Holiday 2014 | Page 7

QA + with jill schwartz who provided the foundation for the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Green Building Rating System. I completed the LEED Green Building Certification Program and advanced training in five environmental categories: Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy and Atmosphere, Materials & Resources, and Indoor Environmental Quality. District Home Magazine:What does it mean to be the only licensed LEED Certified and NAR EcoBroker®/Ecosociate® for MD and DC? How does this set you apart? Jill Schwartz: The National Association of REALTORS® created the Green Designation to service the growing demand for green expertise in real estate. The Green Resource Council awards the NAR Green Designation to REALTORS® who have met specific educational requirements. I took it one step further. I joined the U.S. Green Building Council, a committee made up of architects, real estate agents, building owners, lawyers and environmentalists DHM: What are the benefits of building/ owning a green home? JS: Greener choices can mean healthier indoor air quality and green upgrades and features offer cost benefits through return on investment. As a National Association of REALTORS® Green Designee, EcoBroker®/ Ecosociate®, I help my clients navigate green materials, energy-efficient technologies, green building and product ratings, and help them understand green design principles. I have access to top industry resources and tools that create awareness for healthier living choices. I also represent Long & Foster Real Estate as a Green Ambassador. My Green Living web site, www.greenlongandfoster.com, was recently launched to share fun ideas about green building and decorating. billion in sales for the 10th year. In 2014, I was the #3 individual agent in the office and a member of Long & Foster’s prestigious Founders Club. I specialize in the luxury homes market and currently have a $5+ million dollar spec home listed for sale in Bethesda. Recently I was licensed in Virginia and Delaware. DHM: What are your thoughts on the upcoming 2015 market? Prices have risen for the past 24 months. Do you think this will continue? JS: Interest rates may be ticking up and I am confident that the Spring 2015 will be very strong for bo Ѡ