January 2, 2026
Sustainability in commercial real estate is no longer a niche talking point — it’s a competitive advantage agents can’t afford to ignore. According to the latest 2025 REALTORS® Commercial Sustainability Report, clients across the country are increasingly prioritizing energy efficiency, resilience, and green features when buying, selling, or leasing commercial properties. That shift is creating new opportunities for agents who understand and can communicate the value of sustainable buildings.
Today’s commercial buyers and tenants aren’t just looking at square footage and location. They’re asking detailed questions about operating and utility costs, indoor air quality, energy‑efficient systems, and a building’s resilience to extreme weather. In some markets, clients are even willing to pay a premium for verified sustainable features, and agents who can articulate that value are winning more business.
Properties with green certifications (like LEED or other recognized eco‑standards) tend to trade at higher values, and many professionals now see sustainability as integral to future property performance.
To capitalize on the green trend, commercial agents should start by elevating how they market sustainability features. Survey data shows that while more than half of agents believe energy‑efficiency is valuable in listings, few are currently using green data fields or standardized metrics in commercial databases — a missed leverage point.
As tenant and investor questions get more technical, agents who proactively request utility and performance data early in the process will be better positioned to advise clients. Pursuing sustainability education or credentialing like ESG training or green building certifications gives professionals the credibility to speak confidently about these metrics.
Sustainability is reshaping expectations in commercial real estate. Clients care about cost, air quality, resiliency, and efficiency, and many are prepared to act on those preferences. Agents who embrace sustainability not just as a buzzword but as a core part of their value proposition will differentiate themselves in a crowded market
Disclaimer: This content is meant for informational purposes only and is not intended to be construed as financial, tax, legal, or insurance advice.
