Are real estate agents adequately equipped to market energy efficiency in housing? A study of greater Melbourne

As housing is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, it is important to take measures towards reducing adverse emissions. One element often overlooked in the quest more energy-efficient housing is that of the market facilitator, namely the real estate agent. However, little is known about their understanding of and engagement with energy efficient technologies. This research investigates what information about energy-efficient technologies real estate agents advertise and their reasoning for doing so. In particular, it investigates what real estate agents know and understand about house energy efficient technologies. Although elements of this work have already been promulgated, the individual real estate agent perspective has not. This paper presents the results of in-depth semi-structured interviews with real estate agents across suburban Melbourne, Victoria’s capital, and further highlights these findings through empirical advertising data. Findings show real estate agents will highlight different energy-efficient technologies across Melbourne’s suburban areas and the variance appears to be influenced by household income and retrofitted housing stock. Further, it is found that real estate agents’ engagement with house energy efficient technologies is restricted by their limited understanding of these technologies and constrained by their rigorous training regarding consumer laws and their incumbent responsibilities thereof.