This paper considers the relationship between energy-efficient design and the leasing/sales markets for commercial real estate.
An economic model is provided that considers lease rates and occupancy in simultaneous equilibrium. The behavior of both is
predicted to be influenced by efficient design attributes. Selling price is determined by both rents and occupancy; therefore
the impact of efficient design on commercial sales activity should be distributed through the leasing market. The model is
tested empirically using a national sample of sales and leasing data for class A office buildings. The evidence indicates
that “green” buildings achieve superior rents and sustain significantly higher occupancy. The improved performance in the
rental market is reflected in a significant premium for the selling price of Energy Star-labeled and LEED-certified properties.
Keywords Green design - Office - Leasing - Pricing