I know, it seems unlikely, but consider this. Current data shows more than 20.3 million asthma sufferers in the United States. More than 5,000 people die annually from asthma. Part of my concern is as an EcoBroker Part of it is as an asthma sufferer. My insurance company could save thousands of dollars a year if I could get off just one of my regular medications...What has this got to do with Realtors and the buying and selling of real estate? Plenty.

Indoor air pollution is one of the top five environmental risks to public health. http//:www.epa.gov. Indoor air quality can be greatly improved by properly vented and ducted heating and air conditioning systems. Part of the cause of poor indoor air quality is associated with building materials. Just as an example, 70 % of formaldahyde, a known carcinogen and asthma trigger is used in building materials. It serves as a binder in engineered wood products, insulation and carpet among other things. The stuff outgases for years. It wasn't until I learned about this that I understood why going into new homes always gave me a headache, triggered and asthma attack or both. I used to attribute it to overexertion since, of course, I would never just see one or two homes, it was always more. Carpet showrooms had the same effect.

Families with young children or the increasing number of senior buyers are especially suceptiple to this problem because their systems are more sensitive. The choice of cabinet materials and floor coverings is more than an esthetic decision. Natural fiber or recycled carpet may actually cost a little more in the begining, but not alwys. You can be assured that the savings in medical bills will more than make up the difference. Tile can not only assist in the passive heating of the home, it can also reduce your doctor bills--but be aware of the grout and other materials used to apply it. They can be extremely toxic. Lo-voc paints are widely available.

New homes may not be the answer for chemically sensitive people. Existing homes have had the opportunity to outgas some of their toxic components if they are more than five years old. No house is perfect but some are less likely to make your client sick than others.