The most comprehensive certification in the world for sustainable buildings or green buildings is LEED – Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, granted by the North American institution Green Building Council (GBC). In Brazil, there are already almost 2,000 projects registered and evaluated according to a score presented, with the requirements demanded by the organization.
According to Jonas Libardi (research director at Buildings, a Brazilian company specializing in corporate real estate research), there are currently 2,839 commercial buildings ready for occupation in the city of São Paulo.
Of this total, only 132 are Corporate A and A+ buildings (high and very high standard corporate buildings) with LEED certification. This number represents only 4.6% of the total stock of commercial buildings in the city of São Paulo.
Libardi also points out that the practice of constructing buildings with LEED certification has gained momentum since 2012 “and that the trend is for all new buildings to be built with the requirements to achieve this certification”.
Another interesting fact is that companies have been demonstrating a predisposition to move or occupy Corporate A and A+ buildings with LEED certification.
The graph below shows that since the 3rd quarter of 2021, the vacancy rate for buildings in the Corporate A and A+ universe has been dropping considerably in the city of São Paulo:
In addition to the positive benefit of having your corporate image associated with a green building, the research manager highlights three main reasons for this trend. The first is savings in condominium fees, as green buildings have a condominium rate between 15% and 25% lower than conventional buildings. One of the main factors behind this reduction is the large reduction in water and energy consumption in the common areas of the building.
The second factor that has been driving companies to seek green buildings is the need for foreign companies that, when coming to Brazil, give preference to buildings with this certification. This is precisely because it is an already consolidated market abroad.
And, last but not least, the well-being of users is highlighted, as these certified buildings provide better working conditions and increase productivity.
More benefits and opportunities for the real estate market
The idea of a sustainable construction is focused on the use of natural resources present there, such as, for example, solar lighting, natural energy and ventilation.
In addition, the materials used are chosen to take advantage of materials available at the construction site itself, preferably those that are less processed, non-toxic and with the possibility of recycling.
More and more companies are concerned about ensuring a good experience and care for their employees. Since the COVID-19 pandemic broke out in early 2020, offices have become increasingly less traditional, with fewer fixed workstations and more collaborative spaces.
Proof of this appears in a survey carried out by Dodge Data & Analytics which points out that a healthy building improves employee satisfaction by 79%.
Taking into account the main benefits of leasing in a green building mentioned above, the question that remains is: How much more would I pay for leasing in a green building?
We know the market well
Ocupantes carried out a study comparing the average transaction values in conventional buildings versus the average transaction values in green buildings. The sample is from the last 6 months focused on Corporate class A and A+ buildings in the city of São Paulo.
Incredibly, the average lease values transacted in green buildings was only 5.6% more than in conventional buildings. This difference is that just the savings in the value of the condominium would already be worth it, financially speaking.
The choice of building for your company’s occupation is not always easy to do. In addition to opting for a conventional or green building, there are a number of factors to consider, such as the distance to train and metro stations, nearby security, amenities around the building, etc.
It is in this sense that Ocupantes stands out. We are a company made up of prepared professionals with extensive experience in the corporate real estate market and vast knowledge of the technical specifications of buildings and the surroundings of each region.
This enables us to help our clients make the best decision when choosing the office building they want. And most importantly: no conflict of interest, as we only represent the end user, with no ties to owners and developers.
Douglas Faioli | Partner
Corporate Real Estate Director at Ocupantes, he serves corporate clients from different segments, assisting in the processes of decommissioning, expansion, relocation and renewal of assets. Serves national and multinational companies.
He lived in England for 10 years and worked as an English/Portuguese Interpreter. Graduated in English from North Devon College in England and in Real Estate from Laureate International University.
Phone: +55 11 96384-9167
E-mail: douglas.faioli@ocupantes.com.br
