SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--CBA (Commercial Brokers Association), in partnership with the Cascadia Region Green Building Council, has launched an online Certified Green Broker© education program designed for commercial real estate industry professionals. The program’s objective is to train brokers to adequately counsel clients on sustainability business practices. The course is available online and can be accessed from any computer via the Internet at any time day or night. The Certified Green Broker course website is http://greenbrokereducation.com/. The course syllabus, overview and a live demonstration are available for public preview. “In today’s economic climate, being able to properly distinguish a green building with lower operating and maintenance costs from more conventional structures is a significant advantage,” said Jason F. McLennan, CEO of Cascadia. “Brokers who can understand and convey the emerging language and technology of green building will see their own position in the market rise.” The program consists of 10 comprehensive three-hour seminars presented in an interactive, online format. The course commences with green building basics and continues onto in-depth subject areas such as the development of green leases, the valuation of green buildings and land use laws. Brokers learn the benefits of green leasing to both landlords and tenants including tax incentives, return on investment and reduced energy costs. Participants in the program will have real-time, unlimited access to the Green Broker reference library, a depository of vital sustainability resource materials. The program offers 30 hours of real estate continuing education credit where applicable and gives brokers the right to display the certification in their title, on business cards and other marketing materials. After certification, the broker has access to the Green Broker Institute, a web-based depository dedicated to program graduates. The Institute will provide industry and educational updates and a broker feedback forum for the sharing of information and contacts. The graduate will also be included in a national directory of Certified Green Brokers©. The course is being offered at an introductory rate of $750 per course through May 2009. After June 1, the retail price is $975. Supporting industry organization members will receive 10% off retail and companies buying 10 or more courses for their brokers and agents will receive 15% off each course.
